NCIC returns to Victoria and welcomes physical disability division

The National Cricket Inclusion Championships (NCIC) will feature a Cricketers with a Physical Disability division for the first time when they return in 2027.

The NCIC will be held in Ballarat from January 10-15, 2027, with the support of the Victorian Government, through the Significant Sporting Events Program, and the City of Ballarat, as well as presenting partner Westpac and long-time NCIC supporters Taverners Australia.

The championships provide an opportunity for cricketers with an intellectual, physical, hearing or vision impairment to compete on the national stage, providing a high-performance pathway for athletes.

The 2027 NCIC will also feature the first official Mixed Disability Cricket exhibition match to be held in Australia, following the format’s introduction at international level last year in a series between England and India. 

Peter Roach, Cricket Australia Head of Scheduling, Operations and Domestic Cricket, said:
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“The NCIC are a fantastic opportunity for cricketers with a disability to represent their States and Territories at the top level in Australia. We’re looking forward to taking the championships to Ballarat, where we will play on some terrific venues, including a first for the NCIC playing some matches under lights.

“On behalf of Cricket Australia, I’d like to thank the Victorian Government and City of Ballarat for their support of the 2027 championships, as well as Westpac and Taverners Australia for their ongoing support of the NCIC.”

Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said:
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“This year’s additions to National Cricket Inclusion Championships are a fantastic outcome for players, communities and the future of inclusive sport.

“I’m excited to welcome the Championships back to Victoria in 2027, for what is sure to be a fantastic tournament, thanks to support from the Significant Sporting Events Program.”

Cr Tracey Hargreaves, City of Ballarat Mayor, said:
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“We are delighted to welcome the National Cricket Inclusion Championships to Ballarat in January. The championships are a powerful celebration of inclusivity, aligning with our commitment to champion sport at every level.

“Hosting the NCIC in Ballarat will help shine a spotlight on inclusive cricket to a regional audience. We are proud to host this event and showcase Ballarat as a destination for inclusive sport.”

Majella Knobel, Westpac Director – Access & Inclusion Strategy, said:
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“At Westpac, we believe team sports have the power to create stronger, more connected communities, and these National Cricket Inclusion Championships showcase the impact of making participation accessible to everyone.

“The continued opportunities the championships offer reflects meaningful progress in representation and inclusion. We are proud to again support Cricket Australia’s commitment to ensuring cricket is welcoming, accessible and inclusive for all.”

John Jeffreys, Taverners Australia Chairman, said:
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“The Taverners are once again proud to sponsor the NCIC having been involved since its inception.

“The Taverners look forward to another week of cricket competition, goodwill and renewing of friendships.”

The 2027 National Cricket Inclusion Championships will be supported by the Victorian Government via the Significant Sporting Events Program.

ENDS