Gurugram : Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Saini emphasized the power of courage and determination in achieving success while inaugurating the Nagesh Trophy Men’s National T-20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Gurugram, on Monday.
Addressing the gathering, CM Nayab Saini highlighted that when determination is high, no limitation can hinder the path to success. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to providing a platform for every talent and wings for every dream. To support para-athletes, the government plans to develop special sports infrastructure and a dedicated stadium in Haryana.
CM Nayab Saini inaugurated the tournament as the chief guest and announced financial assistance of ₹21 lakh for the event. Also present were Industry and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh, Minister of State for Sports Gaurav Gautam, and Pataudi MLA Bimla Chaudhary.
During the event, the CM Nayab Saini felicitated the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind, winners of the first T-20 Women’s World Cup for the Blind, praising their courage, discipline, and dedication. He stated that their success serves as a source of inspiration for the nation, especially for para-athletes.
ब्लाइंड वूमेंस T20 वर्ल्ड कप का पहला संस्करण जीतकर इतिहास रचने वाली होनहार भारतीय ब्लाइंड क्रिकेट टीम का आज गुरुग्राम में अभिनंदन किया। इन खिलाड़ियों का साहस, अटूट आत्मविश्वास और दृढ़ संकल्प न केवल खेल जगत, बल्कि सम्पूर्ण मानवता के लिए प्रेरणा की मिसाल है।
मैं सभी खिलाड़ियों के… pic.twitter.com/iyqSnTG7HP
— Nayab Saini (@NayabSainiBJP) February 9, 2026
Highlighting the significance of the tournament, CM Nayab Saini said it is not just a sporting event but a celebration of confidence, determination, courage, and equal opportunity. “Success requires not just sight but a strong willpower,” he added, applauding the visually impaired players for their dedication.
Organized in memory of CABI Founder Chairman Sh. S. P. Nagesh, the 8th edition of the tournament features teams from 29 states and will see 73 matches played. Seventeen outstanding players from the tournament will represent India in international competitions in 2026-27.
CM Nayab Saini highlights Haryana’s ₹989 crore investment in sports, new jobs for 231 players, and modern rehabilitation center for para-athletes
CM Nayab Saini also emphasized the state’s efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to strengthen sports infrastructure and support para-athletes. Over the last 11 years, ₹989 crore has been invested in sports development in Haryana, and the sports department budget has risen from ₹275 crore to over ₹602 crore. Under the Haryana Outstanding Sportsperson Service Rules 2021, 550 new posts have been created and 231 players provided government jobs. Additionally, a modern rehabilitation center has been set up in Panchkula for player recovery.
Also read : Haryana Minister Rao Narbir Singh Highlights Education as Key to Developed India
Minister of State for Sports Sh. Gaurav Gautam praised para-athletes for giving a new direction to society through their hard work, discipline, and dedication. He assured continued government support for training, resources, and national recognition.
During the event, Under-19 player Tejaswini Yadav presented this year’s BCCI financial award money to the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind as encouragement. An exhibition match between Karnataka and Haryana teams showcased excellent performances, with enthusiastic cheering from the spectators.
Prominent attendees included Parliamentary Board Member Sudha Yadav, HPSC Member Mamta Yadav, DC Ajay Kumar, CP Vikas Arora, President of Cricket Association for the Blind in India Dr. Mahantesh, General Secretary Shailendra Yadav, and other dignitaries.