Hyderabad, Dec 28 (.) Karnataka were crowned champions of the South Zone Physical Disability T20 Tournament 2025 after defeating Hyderabad by five wickets in the grand final held at the NFCL Cricket Ground here on Sunday.
Batting first, Hyderabad posted a competitive 115 for 8 in 20 overs, with Prashanth Ram top-scoring with 27. Karnataka bowlers maintained tight control, with Ashoka Yadav emerging as the standout performer, picking up four wickets to restrict the hosts.
Chasing the target, Karnataka reached 118 for 5 in 18.3 overs. Opener Bharat anchored the innings with a steady 35, guiding his team to a comfortable and well-deserved victory.
Earlier, Andhra Pradesh secured third place by defeating Kerala in the playoff match.
Addressing the closing ceremony, DCCI Secretary and chief guest Ravi Kant Chauhan said the tournament once again proved that talent transcends physical limitations, praising the players for their determination, discipline and sportsmanship. He reiterated the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India’s commitment to expanding opportunities for differently abled cricketers.
The tournament, held from December 26 to 28, was organised by the DCCI with the support of the Board of Control for Cricket in India and hosted by the Telangana Cricket Association for the Disabled. Teams from Hyderabad, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry and Kerala participated.
Prize money of Rs 51,000 went to champions Karnataka, while runners-up Hyderabad received Rs 21,000. Sai Nath Reddy of Hyderabad was named Player of the Tournament. The event concluded on a high note, celebrating inclusivity, resilience and sporting excellence in physical disability cricket.
. VV CDS