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Sony Sports Network acquires TV rights to WPBL

The development's focal point is to help pickleball reach a larger audience.

The renowned sports broadcast entity, Sony Sports Network has acquired the television rights to the forthcoming World Pickleball League (WPBL).

The development’s focal point is to help this sport reach a larger audience. In India, more than 50,000 players picked up the sport of pickleball in 2024. There are an estimated 1,000 pickleball courts in India.

Former tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar have conceptualized this league which debuts on January 24, 2025.

The upcoming tournament consists of six franchises – Chennai Super Champs, Hyderabad Superstars, Dilli Dillwale, Mumbai Pickle Power, and Bengaluru Jawans. The 10-day competition will consist of 18 fixtures and 48 international players from 14 different nations.  

Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer – Distribution & International Business and Head – Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India, said, “Pickleball has experienced a tremendous surge in popularity, not just in India but globally. At Sony Sports Network, we have always strived to bring the best and most diverse sporting content to our viewers and the addition of the World Pickleball League affirms our endeavors. We are excited to showcase the inaugural edition of the World Pickleball League to our audiences and provide a platform that will help expand the reach of this dynamic sport.”

Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO – World Pickleball League, said, “We are delighted to have Sony Sports Network as the official broadcaster of the World Pickleball League. Sony Sports Network holds a special place in my heart, given my previous associations with them. Their exceptional track record of captivating audiences with their comprehensive coverage of sporting events across India and the globe is truly commendable. The brand has a deeper partnership with the World Pickleball League, and Sony Sports Network coming on board is a testament to their commitment and trust in the World Pickleball League. Their ability to cultivate fan engagement and enthusiasm for various sports further enhances the excitement as we near the debut season.”

WPBL Schedule:

Match No.Date  (2025)Match
124th JanuaryMumbai Pickle Power vs Pune United
224th JanuaryBengaluru Jawans vs Chennai Super Champs
325th JanuaryBengaluru Jawans vs Hyderabad Superstars
425th JanuaryMumbai Pickle Power vs Dilli Dillwale
526th JanuaryChennai Super Champs vs Dilli Dillwale
626th JanuaryPune United vs Hyderabad Superstars
727th JanuaryMumbai Pickle Power vs Hyderabad Superstars
827th JanuaryPune United vs Bengaluru Jawans
928th JanuaryBengaluru Jawans vs Dilli Dillwale
1028th JanuaryMumbai Pickle Power vs Chennai Super Champs
1129th JanuaryChennai Super Champs vs Pune United
1229th JanuaryHyderabad Superstars vs Dilli Dillwale
1330th JanuaryMumbai Pickle Power vs Bengaluru Jawans
1430th JanuaryDilli Dillwale vs Pune United
1531st JanuaryHyderabad Superstars vs Chennai Super Champs
161st FebruarySemi-final 1: 1st placed Team Vs 4th placed Team
171st FebruarySemi-final 1: 2nd placed Team Vs 3rd placed Team
182nd FebruaryFinals

Before this development, Sony Sports Network also signed associations with the World Tennis League, Hockey International League (HIL), and Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

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