In an exciting new venture, cricketer Rishabh Pant has partnered with Swiggy to co-own the Mumbai Pickle Power team in the inaugural season of the World Pickleball League (WPBL). This marks a significant milestone in Pant’s sports journey, extending beyond cricket into the rapidly growing world of pickleball. With his vast fanbase and dynamic presence, Pant’s entry into the league promises to elevate the profile of pickleball in India, making it a sport to watch out for.
Rishabh Pant’s Foray into Pickleball
Rishabh Pant, known for his electrifying performances on the cricket field, has expressed his excitement about investing in the World Pickleball League. His partnership with Swiggy aims to take the sport to new heights, driving the momentum around pickleball, especially in India. Pant’s passion for the sport is clear, as he said, “The excitement around pickleball is contagious, and I personally love the sport. I wanted to invest in the World Pickleball League to take the sport to the next level.”
The inclusion of Pant in the WPBL comes at a time when pickleball is experiencing a surge in popularity, both globally and in India. As an emerging sport, the World Pickleball League is expected to attract a significant following, and Pant’s involvement will only amplify interest among his fans and beyond.
Swiggy CEO’s Enthusiasm for the Mumbai Pickle Power Team
Swiggy’s CEO, Rohit Kapoor, also shares the enthusiasm surrounding the Mumbai Pickle Power team’s entry into the World Pickleball League. He emphasized that their objective goes beyond winning games. “As co-owners of Mumbai Pickle Power, we’re not just here to win matches; we’re here to create moments of joy, inspire a new generation of players, and make pickleball a household name in India,” Kapoor stated. “With Rishabh’s unmatched energy and our commitment to fostering trends, I can’t wait to see what this season brings. Let’s bring the power to pickleball!”
Kapoor’s words highlight a key goal: to make pickleball a mainstream sport in India. The addition of a popular sports personality like Pant to the league is a strategic move to boost the sport’s visibility and fan engagement.
The World Pickleball League: A Global Showdown
The World Pickleball League kicks off on January 24, 2025, and will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 2 channels. The league will feature six teams: Dilli Dillwale, Pune United, Mumbai Pickle Power, Bengaluru Jawans, Chennai Super Champs, and Hyderabad Superstars. These teams will compete in a thrilling six-day tournament with 18 exciting games, showcasing 48 top international players from 14 countries.
Among the players to watch out for are Rushali Thakare, Mayur Patil, Vanshik Kapadia, Sonu Vishvakarma, and Isha Lakhani, who are set to bring their A-game to the court.
The tournament is poised to make a significant impact on the pickleball scene, especially with the high-profile involvement of figures like Rishabh Pant and Swiggy. With Pant’s passion for the sport and Swiggy’s extensive reach, the Mumbai Pickle Power team is all set to be a major contender in the WPBL.
Why Pickleball is the Next Big Thing in India
Pickleball is gaining traction worldwide, and its growing popularity in India is undeniable. The sport is easy to pick up, offers a fun and competitive environment, and is appealing to all age groups. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it an accessible and exciting sport for both beginners and seasoned players.
The entry of celebrities like Rishabh Pant into the sport is expected to boost its profile and attract more players and spectators. With the support of Swiggy and other key partners, the World Pickleball League is poised to become a key event on India’s sports calendar.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pickleball in India
With the launch of the World Pickleball League and the backing of high-profile figures like Rishabh Pant, the sport is likely to see a major surge in interest in India. As Pant looks to take the sport to the next level, we can expect more investments and initiatives aimed at promoting pickleball across the country.
The collaboration between Pant and Swiggy is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together, create new opportunities, and inspire a whole new generation of athletes. As the World Pickleball League gets underway, all eyes will be on Mumbai Pickle Power and their journey to make pickleball a major sport in India.
Conclusion
Rishabh Pant’s entry into the World Pickleball League as co-owner of the Mumbai Pickle Power team, in partnership with Swiggy, marks an exciting new chapter for the sport in India. With a focus on making pickleball a household name and inspiring future generations, Pant’s involvement will undoubtedly give the sport the visibility it deserves. As the WPBL begins, fans can look forward to high-energy matches and unforgettable moments, all set against the backdrop of India’s rapidly growing pickleball scene.
Stay tuned for more updates on the World Pickleball League, and don’t miss the live-action starting January 24!
