Samaveshi Cup 2026
State Level Mixed Gender Cricket Tournament
Samaveshi, meaning "inclusive," represents the spirit of the Samaveshi Cup.
This groundbreaking mixed-gender cricket tournament champions equal access to sport for girls and boys, particularly those from marginalized and rural areas. Through the power of sport, it nurtures confidence, leadership skills, teamwork, and the values of gender equality.
- 184 teams from diverse regions came together
- Over 2,392 young participants took to the field
- Boys and girls playing side by side as teammates
- A welcoming environment for beginners and emerging leaders alike
- Promoting values of equality, respect, and shared progress through sport
The Results
Winner
Girls on fire - Handiya
Runners Up
Guna Titans
Third
The Sky 11, Nimacha
Fourth
The Gadamod 11, Gadamod
Notable Mentions
Best Player
Karina, Guna Titans
Best Bats player
Triveni, Girls on fire Handiya
Best Bowler
Pinky, The Sky 11, Nimacha
Best Fielder
Vishnavi, Guna Titans
From the Past Vault
Highlights from 2025 Edition of Samveshi Cup
Haq Hai Samaan, Sabhi Ka Hai Maidan
The Samaveshi Cup, organised by Synergy Sansthan, is an inclusive sports initiative that uses cricket to promote youth empowerment and gender equality.
The name “Samaveshi” means inclusive, reflecting its mission to break social barriers and create equal opportunities for girls and boys.
Beyond being a traditional tournament, it addresses concerns facing girls and women in the community while encouraging young people to challenge restrictive social norms and support each other’s dreams. Now in its third phase, the program is expanding to more villages and districts, developing young leaders and demonstrating how sports can catalyze meaningful social change.
How it all started?
The Samaveshi Cup began with the aspiration of two young girls from Synergy Institute’s Changemakers program who wished for the opportunity to play with a leather cricket ball. What started as a simple desire evolved into a powerful annual initiative designed to challenge gender norms, promote equality, and empower youth.
As we prepare for Phase 3, the initiative stands as a beacon of social change and community engagement, fostering a future where all young people can pursue their dreams without limitations.
Objectives
Expected Impact of the Tournament
1. Breaking Gender Norms
- Mixed-gender teams actively challenge community-imposed gender restrictions, fostering understanding and collaboration between boys and girls.
- By ensuring equal opportunities for all genders, the tournament strengthens gender equality and mutual respect.
2. Empowering Girls’ Leadership
- As team captains, girls gain experience in decision-making and leadership in a supportive environment, boosting their confidence and capacity.
- Boys, serving as vice-captains, learn to support and respect female leadership, paving the way for balanced gender dynamics within the community.
3. Advancing Equality & Inclusion
- The Samaveshi Cup represents inclusivity—encouraging participants from all backgrounds, ages, and identities.
- By ensuring equal representation and opportunity, the tournament advocates for an inclusive community where everyone’s talents and dreams are valued.
4. Talent Showcase
- Young people—especially girls who often lack such platforms—get the chance to demonstrate their cricket skills, build recognition, and shape their identity within the community.
- This recognition helps them develop a sense of achievement and pride in their abilities.
5. Building Community Support for Gender Equality
- Engaging local leaders, community members, and families increases awareness of the importance of equality in sports and daily life, contributing to long-term social change.
Community support strengthens the cultural shift towards gender equality.
Phase 3: Transforming Social Attitudes Through Sports
During its third phase, the Samaveshi Cup will expand its reach through the following strategies:
- Expansion to New Districts:
Increasing participation from additional districts will promote inclusivity and help build a strong network of youth changemakers. - Youth Leadership Development:
Strengthening the roles of youth mentors, captains, and organizers to create a cycle of mentorship within the community. - Engaging Families & Elders:
Inviting families to attend and participate in games will help create a supportive environment and reduce resistance to girls’ participation.
Through these efforts, Phase 3 of the Samaveshi Cup will promote gender equality, encourage youth leadership, and reshape social perceptions ultimately building a community where every young person can pursue their aspirations and showcase their talents without barriers.
