After a record-setting debut, the World Pickleball League (WPBL) is heading back to the Cricket Club of India next winter, penciling in January 24 through February 8, 2026 for its second act.
A Debut That Changed the Game
Season 1 proved that pickleball can thrive on a grand stage. Fourteen nations were represented on court, a lightning-fast 15-minute timed format kept rallies frantic, and Hawk-Eye line-calling delivered broadcast-grade accuracy - a first for professional pickleball. An ownership roster mixing tech titans and Bollywood star-power—think Swiggy, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Genelia & Riteish Deshmukh, and Rishabh Pant - blurred the line between sport and pop culture.
“Sharper Competition, Deeper Storytelling”
“Season 1 of the WPBL was a statement of intent. It showed that India is ready not just to embrace pickleball, but to lead its evolution on the global stage… Season 2 promises to be bigger in every way – sharper competition, deeper storytelling, and an even stronger connection with our community.” - Gaurav Natekar, Co-founder & CEO, WPBL
What’s New for 2026
- Elite talent: Returning champions plus fresh international signings will raise the skill ceiling.
- Tech upgrades: Expect deeper in-broadcast analytics and fan-interactive AR overlays.
- Community growth: Free clinics and school programs across Maharashtra aim to nurture the next wave of players.
- Sportainment: Live music stages, curated food courts, and festival-style fan zones will amplify match-day vibes.
Why Mumbai Remains the Perfect Host
The city’s media muscle, cosmopolitan crowd, and electric sporting culture turned Season 1 into a near sell-out. Organisers plan to double down, extending activations into suburban clubs and public parks to ignite pickleball all across the megacity.
Countdown to Serve-Off
Team reveals, kit launches, and grassroots events roll out in the coming months. Mark your calendar - 24 Jan to 8 Feb 2026 - because Mumbai is set to amplify pickleball once more!
Ready to paddle up? Stay tuned for roster drops and ticket details as the WPBL gears up for an even bigger encore.
