- Becomes the only Under-19 boys’ Gulf team to reach the last eight in Bathinda, Punjab tourney
Indian English Academy School (IEAS), Kuwait, achieved a notable milestone at the CBSE U19 Basketball Nationals 2026 in Bathinda, Punjab, with its Under-19 boys’ team becoming the only Gulf team to reach the quarter-finals across the participating categories.
Representing Kuwait at the national-level tournament held at St. Xavier’s High School, the IEAS team delivered an impressive group-stage campaign, securing victories over DPS Qatar (32–24), New Indian School Bahrain (26–16), DPS Surat (30–12) and the host school, St. Xavier’s High School, Bathinda (20–0).
Despite a challenging encounter against Velammal Vidyalaya, Tamil Nadu, the team demonstrated determination and resilience to progress to the knockout stage. Its campaign concluded in the quarter-finals against Yuganter Public School, but the achievement marked a proud moment for IEAS and highlighted the school’s growing sporting credentials.
Under the guidance of coach Clarence, the players showcased teamwork, discipline and perseverance throughout the competition, bringing recognition to their school and Kuwait.
IEAS expressed gratitude to its management, coaches, parents and the wider school community for their continued support. Special appreciation was extended to Rajesh and the ILT WORLD Travel Management team for their planning and coordination, which helped make the team’s participation possible.