Indian Pickleball National Team Trials: Indian pickleball reached a historic moment on National Sports Day, as trials began to select the country’s first-ever national team for the Pickleball World Cup in Florida, USA. The three-day celebration (August 29–31) marked a major milestone for the sport’s growth and recognition in India.
India’s First National Pickleball Team
For the first time, 18 players will be chosen to represent India at the Pickleball World Cup, scheduled for October 27 to November 2 in Florida. The official trials are being held at the Indian Pickleball Association’s (IPA) National Centre for Excellence in Ahmedabad.
IPA president Suryaveer Singh Bhullar called the week historic. He said, “This is a week that will forever be etched in the history of Indian pickleball. On the occasion of National Sports Day, a day that celebrates the spirit of Indian sports and honours our legendary athletes, we are making history by conducting official selection trials to field an Indian team for the Pickleball World Cup for the first time ever.”
Pickleball Spreads Across India
Pickleball tournaments are being held in five cities, featuring seven events, including six under Pickleball World Rankings (PWR). Competitions include the Pickleball Now Grand Prix in Bengaluru, Monsoon Mania and the LawString Cup in Delhi, the Mumbai Masters Cup, and the Trivandrum Pickleball Open.
Hundreds of players are participating, from schools and families to corporates, lawyers, and veterans. The events show how the sport has moved beyond niche circles to become a mainstream part of India’s sporting culture.
A Transparent and Fair System
Bhullar said the IPA is committed to fairness. He added, “This is a dream realised for every pickleball enthusiast and player in our country. Our recent recognition as the official National Sports Federation has been a game-changer. It has given us the platform to transform our vision into reality. The selection trials are a testament to our commitment to a transparent and merit-based system. We are opening the doors for the best talent in India to compete for a spot on the national team, regardless of their background or location.”
A Sport for Everyone
Pickleball is played on small courts with paddles and a perforated ball. Its simple rules and fast pace attract players across generations. Parents compete with children, retirees challenge teens, and first-timers often become instant fans.
National Sports Day Expanded
The Indian government extended National Sports Day into a three-day event this year. For many, pickleball reflects its spirit: fitness, unity, and joy.
Bhullar emphasized the global opportunity ahead. He said, “This is a defining step towards showcasing India’s immense talent on the global stage. We have seen the passion and dedication of our players at various state and national-level events. Now, they have the opportunity to represent India and compete with the world’s best. We are not just sending a team; we are sending a statement. We are announcing to the world that India is a serious contender in the global pickleball community.”
Pickleball’s Future in India
Aditya Khanna, co-founder of Pickleball World Rankings, praised the timing. He said, “On this National Sports Day, we are proud to see the spirit of India’s sporting movement reflected in pickleball. Over the course of this week, more than seven events are being hosted under the aegis of PWR, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete, connect, and celebrate the values of sportsmanship. This alignment with the Government of India’s vision to promote sports at the grassroots level makes the moment even more significant. Pickleball, as one of the fastest growing racquet sports in India and the world, is giving new opportunities for participation, fitness, and excellence, and we are determined to ensure India is at the forefront of this global wave.”
Khanna was confident about the sport’s rise. He said, “National Sports Day is not only a reminder of our country’s great sporting legacy but also a call to build the future. And through pickleball, we are creating new pathways for talent development, inclusivity, and international recognition. Our collective efforts with PWR and IPA are just the beginning, and I am confident that pickleball will soon become a household name, inspiring the next generation of champions.”
Looking Ahead
With hundreds of participants, corporate-backed events, and family-oriented competitions, Indian pickleball is thriving. As National Sports Day shines a light on the nation’s athletes, India’s pickleball players are ready to step onto the world stage with pride.
News in Brief: Indian Pickleball National Team Trials
On National Sports Day, August 29, India began trials in Ahmedabad to select its first national pickleball team for the World Cup in Florida. Seven events are being held nationwide, with hundreds of players competing. IPA president Suryaveer Singh Bhullar and PWR co-founder Aditya Khanna hailed the sport’s growing national importance.
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