Three South Australian squads have been confirmed ahead of the 2026 National Cricket Inclusion Championships, which will be held in Perth from January 12-16. The teams will be competing across three divisions, including:
· Blind and Low Vision
· Cricketers with an Intellectual Disability
· Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Men)
The SA Blind and Low Vision squad has been working extremely hard in the lead up to the Championships.
Head coach Amir Latifi is extremely pleased with the team’s preparation, saying "One of the most pleasing aspects this season has been the leadership from our senior players.
"They’ve really stepped up and supported the younger players, helping them develop their skills and confidence in a positive and inclusive environment."
The team has several experienced national representatives, which will hold them in good stead for another strong NCIC campaign.
Amongst the Cricketers with an Intellectual Disability, the squad brings together fresh talent and experienced campaigners. They will also be looking to replicate last year’s strong performance and go one further.
Head coach Jason Temby is confident the team will go deep into the Championships.
He remarked, "It’s a powerful mix; every player in this team is ready to step up, make their mark and show exactly what the team stands for.
"We’re not just here to participate. We’re here to compete with intent, play for each other and make a statement throughout this tournament."
The SA Deaf and Hard of Hearing squad has also had excellent preparation for the Championships.
New Head Coach John Lonergan said, "The team has responded well to the introduction of high-performance tactics and strategies specifically focusing on T20 cricket."
The team has a combination of experienced and new players who are looking to challenge the best cricketers across Australia in their division.
Full fixtures are available on PlayHQ.
For more information about cricket for people with a disability, please e-mail Jo Connolly, Community Engagement Lead: jconnolly@saca.com.au.
2026 National Cricket Inclusion Championships
Blind and Low Vision Squad: Brad Brider, Chanakan Buakhao, Ethan Cook, Matthew Divito, Reuben Fairbank, Muhummad Furqan, Amelia Hart, Arron Lyall, Hadi Mohammadi, Sophie Patton, Adeline Roe, Hartaj Singh, Lachlan Wallace (c) and Michael Zannis.
Coach - Amir Latifi
Team Manager - David Penn
Team Support - Amy Roe
Cricketers with Intellectual Disability Squad: Bryce Arnold, Aron Baker, Rhys Baker, Beau Chilsholm, Matteus Drosd (c), James Eustance-Smith, Jesse Goodman, Luke Goodman, Steven Hall, Ethan Hooper, Dion Lucas, Bradley Mee, Adam Pattison and Ben Pattison.
Coach - Jason Temby
Assistant Coach - Ardene Ruhode
Team Manager - Trevor Smith
Men’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Squad: Corey Bell, Mark Bell, Dan Cleasby, Gavin Connor, Ben Daw, Dylan Flavel, Jackson Gray, Mat O'Brien, Shrey Patel (c), Brenton Peters, Flynn Smith, Lucas Thornley and Adam Wood.
Coach - John Lonergan
Assistant Coach - Adam Wood
Team Manager - Brenton Peters