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Tag: Arati Ponnappa Natekar

  • Sony Sports Network secures broadcast rights for India’s first world pickleball league

    Sony Sports Network secures broadcast rights for India’s first world pickleball league

    MUMBAI: It’s lobbed the ball in the viewers’ court, with a cross court shot near the baseline.   Will Indian TV viewers manage to give an equally good return?

    Sony Sports Network will be telecasting the inaugural World Pickleball League (WPBL), set to debut on 24 January 2025. This franchise-based league aims to capitalise on the sport’s rapid growth in India, where more than 50,000 players are actively participating, and nearly 1,000 pickleball courts have emerged nationwide.

    Conceptualised by former tennis star Gaurav Natekar and ex-India No. 1 Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the WPBL promises thrilling “sportainment” with six teams—Dilli Dillwale, Pune United, Mumbai Pickle Power, Bengaluru Jawans, Chennai Super Champs, and Hyderabad Superstars—facing off in 18 high-stakes matches over ten days. The tournament will feature 48 elite international players from 14 countries, alongside India’s top talents, including Vrushali Thakare and Mayur Patil.

    Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer & head of sports business Rajesh Kaul said: “The addition of the World Pickleball League affirms our efforts to provide diverse sporting content to our viewers.”

    WPBL co-founder & CEO Gaurav Natekar  praised Sony’s previous association in sports broadcasting, highlighting the network’s  commitment to engaging fans and elevating the league’s profile. 

  • Volvo drives into World Pickleball league as luxury mobility partner

    Volvo drives into World Pickleball league as luxury mobility partner

    MUMBAI: It’s driven right into a “pickular” partnership. Swedish car maker Volvo Car India has come on board the  World Pickleball League (WPBL) as official luxury mobility partner.  Unconfirmed estimates are that it has put in about Rs 50 lakh for the privilege.

    Founded by former top tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the WPBL aims to capture wide audiences through thrilling competitions and entertainment. The league will feature six teams competing in 48 matches over ten days, complemented by performances from renowned Indian artists.

    Natekar expressed pride in the partnership with Volvo, stating, “This collaboration underscores the league’s broad appeal and promise of high-octane action.”

    Volvo Card India MD Jyoti Malhotra added, “We are thrilled to support WPBL and believe it will significantly boost the sport’s popularity and engage discerning audiences who value luxury and performance.”

    The inaugural edition kicks off on 24 January, with tickets available on Swiggy Scenes and live coverage on FanCode. The  iconic Brabourne Stadium, will be playing host, marking the first time the historic venue will be holding  a non-cricket tournament, adding a new chapter to its illustrious legacy.

    The WPBL promises a unique blend of sports and entertainment, featuring performances from renowned artists including Dhvani Bhanushali, Suhani Shah, and the popular band The Yellow Diary. Fans can expect high-energy acts to complement the intense pickleball matches, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

    The opening day will feature thrilling matchups, including a much-anticipated Maharashtra derby where Mumbai Pickle Power faces Pune United, followed by a southern derby with Atlee’s Bengaluru Jawans taking on Samantha Prabhu’s Chennai Champs.

    The WPBL, promoted by Natekar Sports&  Gaming, is committed to growing the fandom for  pickleball in India through engaging events, community building, and grassroots initiatives in franchise cities. It also works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA) and has the backing of Sony Corp as an investor. 

    (Picture courtesy: World Pickleball League facebook page)