New Delhi — Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the first season of the Indian Pickleball League (IPBL) at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, marking the national competition’s debut in the capital. The event included a ceremonial lamp lighting and the unveiling of the league trophy, followed by the opening match between the Bengaluru Blasters and Lucknow Leopards.
Launched by The Times Group, the IPBL is described as India’s first national pickleball league. It is sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and endorsed by the Global Pickleball Federation. Delhi’s role as Partner State was highlighted by the Chief Minister, who said the league reflects the country’s growing interest in a wider range of sports. She noted that the game is gaining acceptance among Indian players and congratulated those involved in establishing the league.
The inaugural season features 36 players, including international professionals and Indian athletes, competing across six teams: Mumbai Smashers, Bengaluru Blasters, Capital Warriors Gurgaon, Hyderabad Royals, Chennai Super Warriors, and Lucknow Leopards. Matches will follow a round-robin format before progressing to knockout stages, leading to the Grand Finale on December 7.
Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group, said the launch represents the beginning of a broader sporting movement in India and acknowledged the contributions of players, coaches, and team officials. Javier Regalado, President of the Global Pickleball Federation, said the league marks an important step in the sport’s global development and could help expand its audience in India.
The opening ceremony drew representatives from the Indian Pickleball Association, franchise owners, athletes, and guests from sport, business, and entertainment. The Adani Group joined as a key partner, along with Delhi Tourism and other supporters.
