India Sends Two Teams to the Pickleball World Cup: In a significant move for Indian pickleball, the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has received the exciting news that it will send not one but two teams to the Pickleball World Cup 2024 in Peru. This marks a historic opportunity for the nation’s budding talent to showcase their skills on a global platform.
Selection Trials Unveil Top Talent
Recently held in Ahmedabad, the selection trials were organized under the auspices of the IPA and the Gujarat State Pickleball Association (GSPA). Nine talented players emerged from the trials, poised to represent India in the upcoming competition.
Leading the charge for the Open Category is none other than Dhiren Patel, who will captain a team featuring standout players Himansh Mehta, Suraj Desai, Rakshika Ravi, and Anshi Sheth.
In the Seniors 50+ Category, experience takes the forefront with players like Nozer Amalsdiwala, Kiran Salian, Bela Kotwani, and Sujay Parekh. This seasoned group is ready to bring their expertise and competitive spirit to the court.
Enthusiasm from the Pros
Pranav Kohli, founder of Pickleball World Rankings, couldn’t contain his excitement about Team India. “I am confident that these players will make us proud and return with the Cup,” he stated in a recent press release, encapsulating the hopes of an entire nation.
IPA President Suryaveer Singh Bhullar echoed this sentiment, proclaiming, “It is a proud moment for the Indian Pickleball Association to be invited to send two teams to the World Cup. We have full faith in these players and hope they will bring glory to India.” This enthusiasm is palpable, as the teams gear up for what promises to be a thrilling journey.
A Growing Pickleball Landscape
The partnership behind this monumental event comes from PWR, a collaboration between The Times Group, a leading news and entertainment entity in India, and Pickleball Asia Private Limited. In a move that’s turning heads, PWR launched the PWR World Series (PWS) and PWR World Tour in Dubai back in July 2024. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has been announced as the host for the inaugural PWR World Series in February 2025.
Adding to the excitement, PWR also recently unveiled the PWR DUPR Indian Tour & League, aiming to elevate pickleball’s profile in India. Tennis legend Andre Agassi is set to visit India in January 2025 to officially kick off this ambitious tour. Mark your calendars, because the first PWR 700 event of the DUPR Indian tour is set to take place in New Delhi from October 24 to 27.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
As the teams prepare for the Pickleball World Cup 2024, the anticipation is at an all-time high within the Indian pickleball community. With aspirations of victory hanging in the balance, all eyes will be on these athletes as they embark on their journey to Peru, aiming to make history for Indian pickleball.
News in Brief : India Sends Two Teams to the Pickleball World Cup
The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has been invited to send two teams to the Pickleball World Cup 2024 in Peru. Selection trials held in Ahmedabad led to the selection of nine players, with Dhiren Patel captaining the Open Category team. The Seniors 50+ Category features experienced players. PWR, in partnership with The Times Group, has launched a series of initiatives to promote pickleball, including the PWR DUPR Indian Tour & League. Excitement builds as the teams prepare for the World Cup, aiming to bring home glory for India.
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