World Pickleball League Returns: Season 2 Dates Announced

The sport of pickleball is gearing up for another electrifying chapter in India. After a groundbreaking debut, the World Pickleball League (WPBL) has officially announced the dates for its much-anticipated Season 2. The action will unfold in Mumbai from January 24 to February 8, 2026, promising fans and players an even bigger, bolder and more entertaining experience than before.

Building on a Blockbuster Debut

The inaugural season of WPBL made waves not just in India but across the globe. Hosted at the historic Cricket Club of India, the first edition brought together elite pickleball athletes from 14 countries, setting a new standard for the sport in India. The league’s unique 15-minute match format and the use of Hawk-Eye officiating technology added a modern twist, making the matches fast-paced and fair.

What truly set WPBL apart was its “sportainment” approach—blending high-level competition with entertainment. The league attracted a star-studded roster of franchise owners, including celebrities like Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Atlee & Priya, Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh, Jackky Bhagnani, Rishabh Pant, and Rakul Preet Singh, along with major brands such as Swiggy.

What to Expect in Season 2

According to WPBL’s Co-founder & CEO, Gaurav Natekar, Season 2 is set to be “bigger in every way—sharper competition, deeper storytelling, and an even stronger connection with our community.” The league will once again bring together top players from around the world, high-profile franchise owners, and an evolved matchday experience that fuses sport and entertainment in equal measure.

Here’s what fans can look forward to:

• Return of Marquee Names: Expect to see the biggest stars from last season and new faces joining the fray.
• Innovative Match Formats: The 15-minute match format will continue, keeping the action intense and engaging.
• Advanced Technology: Hawk-Eye officiating ensures every point is fair and transparent.
• Bigger “Sportainment” Factor: With celebrities and influencers involved, the league will offer more than just matches—think live performances, fan interactions, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
• Grassroots Growth: WPBL aims to expand pickleball’s reach, nurturing young talent and building a strong foundation for the sport in India.

Mumbai: The Heart of the Action

Mumbai, which hosted the league’s debut and received overwhelming support from fans, will once again be the stage for this international sporting spectacle. The city’s energy and enthusiasm for new sports make it the perfect home for WPBL’s continued journey.

Leading India’s Pickleball Revolution

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, and India is quickly becoming a major player in its evolution. WPBL’s success has put the country on the map, showing that India is not just ready to embrace pickleball, but to lead its growth worldwide.

Gaurav Natekar summed it up:

“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. The response and the goodwill we received from players, fans, and partners exceeded all expectations, and Season 2 promises to be bigger in every way.”

What’s Next?

With the dates now set, fans can expect further announcements in the coming weeks about team lineups, new franchise owners, and special events. The countdown to Season 2 has begun, and if the first season is anything to go by, pickleball enthusiasts are in for a treat