1st non-cricket sporting tournament to be held on CCI’s renowned cricket ground in over 15 years.
MUMBAI, Jan 14 (The CONNECT) – India’s first franchise-based Pickleball league is set to make history at Mumbai’s iconic Brabourne Stadium Cricket Club of India (CCI) stadium, beginning January 24th, 2025.
Called The World Pickleball League (WPBL), the event becomes the first non-cricket sporting tournament to be held on CCI’s renowned cricket ground in over 15 years.
Established in 1933, the Cricket Club of India stands as an enduring symbol of India’s rich sporting heritage. Known for hosting historic matches and nurturing legends, its Brabourne Stadium is celebrated as one of the most picturesque venues in the country, blending timeless elegance with sporting excellence.
Co-founded by former Indian tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the World Pickleball League brings together six dynamic teams with ownership spanning respected corporate leaders and beloved celebrities. Powered by PNG Jewellers, the league promises a unique blend of sports and entertainment, redefining fan engagement.
Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder of WPBL, expressed his pride in the venue, stated, 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, said, 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”.
Beyond cricket, the CCI has evolved into a vibrant cultural and sporting hub, offering world-class facilities and fostering a strong sense of community among its members and sports enthusiasts alike.
WPBL Schedule:
| Match No. | Date | Match |
| 1 | 24th January | Mumbai Pickle Power vs Pune United |
| 2 | 24th January | Bengaluru Jawans vs Chennai Super Champs |
| 3 | 25th January | Bengaluru Jawans vs Hyderabad Superstars |
| 4 | 25th January | Mumbai Pickle Power vs Dilli Dillwale |
| 5 | 26th January | Chennai Super Champs vs Dilli Dillwale |
| 6 | 26th January | Hyderabad Superstars vs Pune United |
| 7 | 27th January | Mumbai Pickle Power vs Hyderabad Superstars |
| 8 | 27th January | Bengaluru Jawans vs Pune United |
| 9 | 28th January | Bengaluru Jawans vs Dilli Dillwale |
| 10 | 28th January | Mumbai Pickle Power vs Chennai Super Champs |
| 11 | 29th January | Chennai Super Champs vs Pune United |
| 12 | 29th January | Hyderabad Superstars vs Dilli Dillwale |
| 13 | 30th January | Mumbai Pickle Power vs Bengaluru Jawans |
| 14 | 30th January | Dilli Dillwale vs Pune United |
| 15 | 31st January | Hyderabad Superstars vs Chennai Super Champs |
| 16 | 1st February | Semi-final 1: 1st placed Team Vs 4th placed Team |
| 17 | 1st February | Semi-final 1: 2nd placed Team Vs 3rd placed Team |
| 18 | 2nd February | Finals |
