The Deaf International Cricket Council has confirmed the DICC World Cup will take place in the United Arab Emirates from October 24 to 31, 2026, bringing together the world’s leading deaf cricketers for a week of high-level competition.
Muhammad Zahir Uddin Babar, Chief Executive Officer of the DICC and a Pakistani national, said the event is intended as a celebration of ability and unity, highlighting sportsmanship, inclusivity and excellence across deaf cricket. “The DICC Cricket World Cup 2026 is not just a tournament, it’s a celebration of ability, unity, and the universal language of sport,” he said while praising the UAE’s world-class cricket infrastructure.
The DICC expressed deep appreciation to the ICC Chairman and management for their support and encouragement in promoting deaf cricket internationally, noting that this backing has helped empower the deaf cricket community and expand opportunities for players worldwide.
Zahir confirmed that six top teams will compete, arranged in three groups, and that the list of participating nations will be released by the end of next month. The council will establish a series of committees to oversee logistics, competition standards and fair play to ensure the smooth conduct of the Cup.
The DICC has invited member nations, sponsors and media partners to collaborate in making the tournament a global showcase for deaf cricket. Organisers aim to use the DICC World Cup to raise awareness about the talent and determination of players with hearing loss and to reinforce that cricket is open to all.
For Pakistan and the wider South Asian deaf cricket community, the UAE-hosted event represents a major opportunity to spotlight domestic talent on an international stage and to strengthen development pathways that support athletes with hearing impairment.
