New Delhi: Goa recorded a landmark achievement by securing the CM’s Trophy at the Odisha National Wheelchair Cricket Championship 2025, held from 29 November to 3 December. The tournament brought together six strong teams from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra, showcasing the rapid rise of wheelchair cricket as a competitive adaptive sport in the country.
The final proved to be a gripping contest, with Goa delivering a commanding all-round display against Chhattisgarh. The standout performance came from Niklesh Pednekar, who struck an unbeaten 65 runs that anchored the team’s successful chase. His effort played a pivotal role in sealing the championship and has been widely acknowledged as a defining highlight of Goa’s campaign.
On their return to Goa, the players were greeted with an enthusiastic reception. The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa, Guruprasad Pawaskar, along with Taha Haziq, Secretary in the same office, welcomed the team at the railway station. Their presence reflected the state’s firm commitment to strengthening opportunities for athletes with disabilities and celebrating their achievements at national platforms.
Goa’s squad in the championship comprised a dedicated group of players who showcased resilience and cohesion throughout the tournament. The batting unit featured Gauresh Marathe, Mahesh Pagadala, Hanmanth, Nagesh Redkar, Niklesh Pednekar, captain Stany D’Souza, Moises Rodrigues, and Sayad Mosik Ahmed. Supporting them were Shivappa Karadi, Santosh R. Gawas, and Mithun Shirodkar, whose contributions added depth to the team and strengthened Goa’s overall performance.
State Commissioner Pawaskar remarked that the victory represents more than a sporting milestone and reflects the transformative power of inclusive sporting opportunities. He noted that the achievement will encourage more individuals with disabilities to step into the world of competitive sports.
Team mentor Vishant Nagvekar highlighted the role of sustained support and consistent training in shaping the team’s success. He expressed hope that continued investment in accessible training facilities will help athletes prepare more effectively and earn further recognition for Goa in adaptive sports.
Goa’s win stands as a significant moment for the state’s parasports movement and signals the growing momentum of adaptive sports across India.
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