Pickle Pros, an extensive campaign dedicated to pickleball promotion in India, was jointly announced by LegaXy, a sports, media, and entertainment firm, and the M3M Foundation, the philanthropic division of M3M Group. The launch marks the beginning of a nationwide effort aimed at bringing pickleball to the forefront in cities across the country, starting with Delhi NCR, to foster growth and accessibility for all age groups.
Rollout of Facilities and Training to Foster Engagement
The Pickle Pros programme is designed to build top-tier courts and supporting infrastructure in key urban centers, beginning in India’s capital region. To encourage participation, the initiative organizes training camps, community events, open-play sessions, and competitive tournaments, targeting individuals ranging from novices to experienced athletes. This comprehensive approach seeks to create an inviting atmosphere and make pickleball accessible and appealing to players with varied backgrounds and skill levels.
Dr. Payal Kanodia, who serves as Chairperson and Trustee for M3M Foundation, underscored the transformative potential of sports within communities:
“At M3M Foundation, we believe sport is not just play – it’s a powerful catalyst for change. Through Pickle Pros, we are championing a movement that inspires active, healthy living while unlocking new avenues for growth, inclusion, and community empowerment.”
—Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation
She further emphasized,
“This collaboration is a reflection of our deep- rooted commitment to purpose-driven impact — where every game played echoes with opportunity, wellness, and the spirit of togetherness”
—Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation
Leadership, Vision, and National Sporting Influence
Amitesh Shah, who is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at LegaXy, highlighted the broader mission pursued through Pickle Pros:
“Pickle Pros is more than a sporting initiative – it is a movement that celebrates accessibility, excellence, and joy. Bringing together three cricketing legends for the first time in support of this vision is a testament to its significance and potential. We are committed to making India a force in the global pickleball arena, while inspiring everyone to engage with this dynamic sport.”
—Amitesh Shah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, LegaXy
For additional visibility and public endorsement, renowned Indian cricketers Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Umesh Yadav have joined hands with Pickle Pros. Their support aims to amplify the campaign by encouraging broader awareness and active participation, particularly among the youth and aspiring players across the nation.
Cricket Icons Lend Their Voice to Boost Participation
Ishant Sharma, expressing his excitement about the initiative, remarked,
“Being part of Pickle Pros excites me because it combines fitness, fun, and community in one sport. Pickleball is easy to start, yet challenging to master – and I believe it can inspire a whole new wave of players across India.”
—Ishant Sharma, Cricketer
The campaign intends to work closely with schools, local authorities, and private entities in order to foster expansion. By engaging these groups, Pickle Pros hopes to build a thriving ecosystem that supports recreation, facilitates new opportunities, and drives growth of the sport throughout India.
Global Trends and Domestic Potential
Pickleball has seen remarkable popularity, with more than 36 million participants in the United States. This trend aligns with India’s increasing interest in leisure and wellness-based activities. The organizers see substantial potential in cultivating a robust community around pickleball, creating opportunities not only for sport but also for related businesses and events.
With LegaXy and M3M Foundation steering this initiative, Pickle Pros stands poised to breathe new life into India’s sporting culture. Backed by influential cricketers such as Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Umesh Yadav, the programme aims to put India on the global map for pickleball, hoping to nurture both champions and an enthusiastic new generation of players.