The Indian Pickleball League (IPBL) has announced all the six franchises for its inaugural season. The first edition of the league will be held from December 1-7 in New Delhi. The competition will be held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium.
The six franchises for its inaugural season of Indian Pickleball League are listed below:
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Gurgaon Capital Warriors
The Gurugram-based side has been acquired by M3M. Pankaj Bansal, Director, M3M India, said, “Gurugram loves fast, social, high-energy sport. Being the city’s first major league franchise makes this moment special.”
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Mumbai Smashers
Nitish Mittersain, CEO of Nazara Technologies, who are backing the Mumbai franchise added: “Mumbai thrives on speed, skill, and competition. And Pickleball fits right in.”
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Bengaluru Blasters
Vasanth Kalyan, CEO of Bengaluru Blasters said: “Bengaluru reflects the pulse of new India — quick, expressive, and competitive. Pickleball feels tailor-made for this city.”
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Chennai Super Warriors
Dr Swetha Sundeep of Accord Group, who are behind Chennai Super Warriors, said: “Chennai has always backed competitive, high-energy sport. Pickleball adds a new dimension to that spirit.”
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Hyderabad Royals
Anubhav Tyagi, Managing Director of Operam Ventures, who own Hyderabad Royals said: “Hyderabad is ready for the next big sport. Pickleball has found early, enthusiastic adoption here, and IPBL gives us a national stage to build on that momentum.”
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Lucknow Leopards
Aayushi Dholakia, Femina Miss India Runner-up, was announced as the Brand Ambassador for Lucknow Leopards. The team said, “Her energy, elegance, and championship spirit perfectly reflect our passion and drive. We’re thrilled to have her rally with us this season.”
Also Read: Indian Pickleball League To Debut In December In Delhi
The Indian Pickleball League, launched by The Times Group, is India’s official and only national league for Pickleball, sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA).
“These teams represent the scale, ambition, and reach that define the IPBL. They bring a fresh competitive spirit that will make pickleball a modern fixture in India’s sporting landscape,” said Vineet Jain, Managing Director, The Times Group.
The six teams will compete in a round-robin before going into the knockout-stage playoffs that will determine the teams playing in the grand finale. IPBL action promises to be dynamic, fast-paced, and thrilling, showcasing the best pickleball talent of India, and giving fans a showcase they will surely enjoy.
