Tamil Nadu has been actively supporting new and emerging sports and one game gaining attention both nationally and internationally is pickleball. Its growth has been further boosted by the launch of the Indian Pickleball League a franchise based competition inspired by leagues like the IPL. The first edition is scheduled from December 1 to 7 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi.
The league’s launch event on Tuesday introduced the jerseys for the inaugural season. Five teams will compete initially with a sixth team to be announced later. The teams are Chennai Super Warriors, Bengaluru Blasters, Capital Warriors Gurgaon, Hyderabad Royals and Mumbai Smashers.
Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, the chief guest at the event, highlighted the sport’s inclusivity. “It’s a game for all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. Its global popularity shows its universal appeal,” he said.
Earlier this year, the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu conducted the first Tamil Nadu Pickleball Premier League. Chennai also hosted India’s first ever PWR 1000 tournament Pickleball by the Bay in September which is the highest ranking event in the country for the sport.
Mihika Yadav, who won the Open Singles title at the PWR 1000, was at the launch. She credited the sport’s rapid growth to its simple rules and quick learning curve. “Once you pick up the paddle, you cannot put it down,” she said.
A former professional tennis player, Mihika switched to pickleball just over two years ago and now represents India internationally. She will enter the league’s player draft after winning the inaugural Pickleball National Championship in Bengaluru and earning a bronze medal at the Pickleball World Cup in Florida.
Looking ahead, Mihika expressed excitement about the team format. “I am eager to see who my teammates will be and to compete together. The league’s fast pace and team dynamics are what make it unique. I cannot wait to get started.”
