The Cricket Club of India (CCI), a hallowed ground for Indian cricket, is set to witness a historic shift.
From January 24 to February 2, 2025, the CCI will break from its cricketing tradition to host the inaugural season of the World Pickleball League (WPBL).
Commenting on the occasion, Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder of WPBL, expressed, “To witness season 1 of the World Pickleball League unfold at a location where my father became the first non-cricketer inducted into the Legends Club is truly an honour. The CCI represents credibility and iconism, standing as the crown jewel of Mumbai’s sporting landmarks. Hosting the league on Brabourne Stadium adds stature to the league. With its central location, deep emotional connection with fans, and the plans we have for the league, we are confident in delivering an unforgettable in-stadium experience, paired with unparalleled sportainment for our audience.”
Madhumati Lele Shrivastava, President of CCI, added, “We are delighted to welcome the World Pickleball League as it hosts its inaugural season at CCI. We thank Gaurav and Arati for choosing CCI as their venue and assure them of our full support. The WPBL masterfully combines sports and entertainment, creating a league that will be loved by audiences across boundaries and age groups. The recent success of the WPC, where WPBL was a Powered by Partner, demonstrated the growing excitement around Pickleball, and we are confident the league will be a grand success.”
The WPBL, powered by PNG Jewellers is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing the versatility of this historic venue and solidifying Pickleball’s position within the Indian sporting landscape.
The World Pickleball League (WPBL), spearheaded by former India Number 1 tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is revolutionizing Pickleball in India. With a focus on delivering exceptional events, creating captivating fan experiences, and fostering a vibrant and inclusive community, the WPBL aims to set new standards for the sport. With Sony Corporation as an investor and partner, the WPBL works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA, to further the development and growth of Pickleball in the country.
Established in 1933, the Cricket Club of India stands as an enduring symbol of India’s rich sporting heritage. Renowned for hosting historic matches and nurturing cricketing legends, its Brabourne Stadium is celebrated as one of the most picturesque venues in the country, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with sporting excellence. The ground recently hosted the first-ever World Pickleball Championship.