The World Pickleball League (WPBL) has announced an exciting roster of entertainment acts to complement the action-packed inaugural season at Mumbai’s historic Brabourne Stadium. Running from January 24 to February 2, 2025, this first-ever non-cricket event at the venue will redefine sports entertainment in India.
According to a press release, the WPBL blends competitive pickleball with world-class entertainment, featuring performances by pop singer Dhvani Bhanushali, mentalist Suhani Shah, pop-rock band The Yellow Diary, hip-hop star Raja Kumari, guitarist and singer-songwriter Taba Chake, global fusion collective The Indian Jam Project, indie group Chaar Diwaari and Adi Dishaan, and viral sensation Akshath Acharya.
This entertainment line-up, curated by Entertainment Consultant, ensures a dynamic experience for fans, combining high-energy performances with the thrill of live sports.
Six premier franchises will compete for the championship in a meticulously planned format:
Mumbai Pickle Power
Pune United
Bengaluru Jawans (led by filmmaker Atlee)
Chennai Super Champs (owned by actress Samantha Prabhu)
Hyderabad Superstars
Dilli Dillwale
Adding to the excitement, the semi-finals will feature a special exhibition match with legendary boxer Amir Khan, further raising the stakes and appeal of the tournament.
Founded by former Indian tennis champions Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the WPBL aims to revolutionize pickleball in India. Beyond hosting high-stakes matches, the league has partnered with Sony Corporation and the All-India Pickleball Association to foster grassroots development in franchise cities.
Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of WPBL, shared, “Pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a unifying movement. Through WPBL, we are bringing a fresh, fast-paced sporting experience to India, while also building a community-driven platform for future athletes and fans alike.”
Renowned host Himanshu Chatwani will anchor the event, ensuring seamless entertainment. WPBL’s ticketing partner Swiggy Scenes is offering fans an easy way to access this one-of-a-kind event.
Aahana Mehta, Business Head, Entertainment Consultant, emphasized, “This tournament creates a perfect blend of sport and entertainment, making pickleball accessible, exciting, and family-friendly. We are setting a new benchmark in sports entertainment with this inaugural season.”
As pickleball gains momentum worldwide, the WPBL is poised to introduce this dynamic sport to Indian audiences on a grand scale. Combining competitive gameplay with vibrant cultural elements, the league promises an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike.
Don’t miss the World Pickleball League, running until February 2, 2025, at Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.