Cricket star Rishabh Pant turned the Jio World Garden into a fan frenzy! The Mumbai Pickle Power co-owner delighted 150+ kids with autographs, overshadowing his team’s mixed performance against Rajasthan Titans.
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Cricket Meets Pickleball in Epic Fashion
Indian cricket sensation Rishabh Pant brought unprecedented energy to the World Pickleball League Season 2, supporting his franchise Mumbai Pickle Power while creating unforgettable memories for scores of young fans on February 3.
Mumbai Pickle Power vs Rajasthan Titans Results
| Match Type | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Men’s Singles | Max Green (Mumbai) wins | 22-19 vs Jack Foster |
| Mixed Doubles | Rajasthan Titans win | 15-11 (Brandon & Glauka Carvajal Lane) |
| Mixed Doubles (Mumbai) | Amanda Hendry & Trinh Linh Giang lose | Close contest |
Pant’s Magic Beyond the Pitch
While Mumbai Pickle Power managed only one victory—Max Green’s 22-19 men’s singles triumph over Jack Foster—Pant’s presence eclipsed the on-court struggles. The wicketkeeper-batter cheerfully signed autographs, posed for photos, and engaged with children, transforming the fixture into a celebration beyond sport.
The mixed doubles match saw Amanda Hendry and Trinh Linh Giang pushed to their limits before falling 15-11 to Brandon and Glauka Carvajal Lane in a closely contested battle.
Growing the Pickleball Movement
Mumbai Pickle Power has cultivated an organic supporter base across two WPBL seasons, but Pant’s arrival elevated enthusiasm to stratospheric levels. His interaction with franchise faithfuls demonstrated how celebrity ownership can amplify emerging sports’ appeal in India.
The World Pickleball League continues expanding pickleball’s footprint in India, with franchises like Mumbai leveraging cricket stars to attract mainstream attention to the fast-growing racquet sport.
What’s Next
Mumbai Pickle Power faces Pune United on February 5, seeking redemption after the Rajasthan defeat. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Titans will challenge Bengaluru Jawans tomorrow in their next fixture.
As pickleball gains momentum in India, celebrity endorsements like Rishabh Pant’s co-ownership signal the sport’s transition from niche recreational activity to competitive entertainment. For updates on sports crossovers and emerging leagues, follow Technosports and check our sports coverage.
FAQs
What is the World Pickleball League (WPBL)?
The WPBL is India’s premier pickleball franchise league, now in its second season, featuring international players and celebrity team owners.
How is pickleball different from tennis or badminton?
Pickleball uses a smaller court, solid paddles, and a perforated plastic ball—combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
