Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Salman Khan, Eknath Shinde Launch President Cup 2026, A Tennis‑Cricket Tournament With ₹1 Crore Top Prize

The larger purse signals ITCSF’s push to professionalize tennis cricket.

Overview

  • The nationwide 16‑team tournament began Tuesday at Dadoji Konddev Stadium in Thane following a trophy unveiling by Salman Khan and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
  • Organisers confirmed ₹1 crore for the champions and ₹50 lakh for the runners‑up, with free entry and fan giveaways that include electric bikes and cash vouchers.
  • Videos from the venue show fans swarming Salman Khan during his exit as security struggled to hold the crowd back and police vehicles escorted him out.
  • ITCSF president Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde said he plans to stage the event three times a year in different cities to create a pathway for grassroots players.
  • The President Cup fields state teams from across India and follows a 2025 season won by YCK Abrama XI, reflecting the tournament’s rising profile in tennis‑cricket.