The World Pickleball League (WPBL) has welcomed its seventh franchise as billionaire investor and entrepreneur Siddharth Shankar acquires the newly-introduced Jaipur Djinns. This strategic expansion into Rajasthan marks a significant milestone for India’s first professional, franchise-based pickleball league ahead of its Season 2 debut.
Table of Contents
WPBL Season 2: Key Expansion Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Franchise | Jaipur Djinns (7th team) |
| Owner | Siddharth Shankar (Tails Trading Chairman) |
| Season 2 Matches | 120 (up from 90 in Season 1) |
| Duration | 16 days of competition |
| Start Date | January 24, 2026 |
| Venue | Jio World Garden, Mumbai |
| Head Coach | Lee Whitwell |
Strategic Investment by Global Entrepreneur
Siddharth Shankar, Chairman of UK-based Tails Trading and Global COO at Komerz Ltd, brings extensive sports investment experience from previous stakes in the United Soccer League and Central Florida Pro Soccer in the United States. His entry into WPBL reflects confidence in pickleball’s global growth trajectory and India’s expanding sports ecosystem.
Shankar emphasized that WPBL’s vision to build an ecosystem rather than merely a sports league resonated with his investment philosophy. Drawing from his experience building global distribution and market platforms, he recognizes that success stems from scale, participation, and consistency—principles WPBL embodies.
Season 2 Expansion and Format
With Jaipur Djinns’ inclusion, WPBL expands from six to seven teams, increasing the match calendar by 33% to 120 fixtures. The 16-day competition promises non-stop sportainment as teams compete for the WPBL title starting January 24, 2026, at Mumbai’s Jio World Garden.
Gaurav Natekar, Founder and CEO of World Pickleball League, highlighted that attracting global entrepreneurs and long-term investors validates their vision. The expansion into Rajasthan demonstrates commitment to building a truly national, scalable league with international relevance while providing exposure to more players.
Community Engagement and Regional Impact
Following a successful inaugural season, World Pickleball League maintained momentum through its year-round WPBL On Tour initiative—a multi-city program fostering widespread participation and community connection beyond the league window. The addition of Jaipur Djinns ensures sustained engagement in Rajasthan, unlocking a new regional fanbase and strengthening India’s emerging pickleball ecosystem.
Jaipur brings immense sports and entertainment legacy, with the franchise aiming to build strong regional and community connections that are commercially viable and scalable. The team has already finalized its roster including Amanda Hendry, Giang Trinh, Naveen Beasley, Ritam Chawla, Lorena Duknic, Jack Foster, Isabella Nelson, and Connie Lee.
Promoted by Natekar Sports and Gaming with Sony Corporation as financial and strategic partner, WPBL collaborates with the All-India Pickleball Association and International Pickleball Federation (IPF) to build a vibrant, community-driven ecosystem.
FAQs
When does WPBL Season 2 start?
WPBL Season 2 begins on January 24, 2026, at Jio World Garden in Mumbai with seven teams competing.
Who owns the Jaipur Djinns franchise?
Billionaire investor Siddharth Shankar, Chairman of Tails Trading and Global COO at Komerz Ltd, acquired the franchise.
