India Gears Up for Junior Pickleball World Cup Selection Trials

Upcoming National Trials for Junior Pickleball Team

The popularity of pickleball is surging in India, particularly among younger athletes, as the sport develops a robust junior talent pool in anticipation of significant international competitions. The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) is preparing to conduct national selection trials next month to finalize the junior team that will represent India at the Pickleball World Cup 2026 in Vietnam.

Recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and the Sports Authority of India as the official National Sports Federation for pickleball, the IPA will hold the three-day trials in Ahmedabad from June 12 to 14. The chosen players will compete in the third edition of the Pickleball World Cup, which is sanctioned by the Global Pickleball Federation and scheduled for August 30 to September 9 in Vietnam.

IPA President Suryaveer Singh Bhullar emphasized the significance of nurturing young talent for the national team. He stated, “The junior squad is crucial as it shapes the future representatives of India on the international stage. These athletes are the ones who will eventually participate in major global events once pickleball is officially included.”

Over 100 competitors from various states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Assam, Rajasthan, Odisha, Haryana, and Gujarat, are anticipated to participate in the U14 and U18 categories. Notable athletes like Arjun Singh, who recently earned three medals at the US Open in singles and doubles, and promising player Naomi Amalsadiwala, known for her performance in the open category, will be among those vying for selection.

Other prominent junior players, such as Panth Thakkar, who secured bronze in doubles at the US Open, along with Purvansh Patel, Anoushka Chabbria, Veer Shah, and Dev Shah, will also compete for spots on the Indian team. The selection committee for the trials comprises Aalap Sharma, Dhiren Patel, Mohit Kumar, Atul Edward, and IPA CEO Aditya Khanna.