The selection framework will be primarily based on performances at the IPA National Championships, along with results from all IPA-sanctioned tournaments leading up to and including the Picklebay Zonals. The Picklebay Zonals, conducted under IPA authorization, will serve as the final qualifying event within the selection window before the squad is officially finalized.
India’s previous appearance at the Pickleball World Cup in the United States marked its debut on the global stage, where the national team delivered a strong performance by securing 25 medals, including 8 gold, 8 silver, and 9 bronze. The team finished seventh in the overall medal standings and emerged as the only Asian nation within the top ten. The IPA stated that the current selection process has been designed to not only uphold but further elevate that benchmark of performance.
Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, President of the Indian Pickleball Association, stated that the announcement builds upon a landmark moment for Indian pickleball, emphasizing that the selection framework is intended to strengthen India’s international competitiveness and sustain its upward trajectory on the global stage.
The national squad will be selected by the IPA Selection Committee through a structured, performance-driven process that will evaluate players based on past results in IPA-sanctioned events and current global rankings. Priority will be given to athletes demonstrating top-tier international standings to ensure representation across Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles categories at the highest competitive level.
In addition, fitness standards and current match form will be assessed concurrently. All shortlisted players will be required to sign a formal Performance Agreement with the IPA, committing to international-level physical standards, compliance with the IPA Code of Conduct, and full medical transparency. The Selection Committee will also retain the authority to include wildcard selections for players demonstrating exceptional potential or strategic value to team composition.
For the Junior category, the IPA will conduct a dedicated selection trial in Ahmedabad from June 12 to June 14. The outcomes of this trial, combined with year-long performances in IPA-sanctioned events, will determine the final Junior squad for the Vietnam-bound campaign.
The selected national team will also receive official backing from the Indian Pickleball League franchise Lucknow Leopards for the upcoming Pickleball World Cup. The franchise will act as the principal benefactor for India’s Open category athletes, reinforcing financial and structural support for the country’s top competitors on the international stage.
This partnership reflects the Lucknow Leopards’ stated commitment to strengthening the grassroots and professional ecosystem of pickleball in India, aiming to bridge domestic league success with international achievement and elevate India’s presence in global pickleball competition.
About The Author
.jpg)
Comment List