The World Pickleball League (WPBL), India’s most anticipated sporting innovation, is taking pickleball to the next level with cutting-edge rules designed to transform the game.

Founded by former tennis champions Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, WPBL introduces new strategies and faster gameplay to captivate players and spectators alike.

At the heart of this revolution is a 15-minute timed format, ensuring electrifying, uninterrupted action. Players must complete points within a brisk 10-second window, keeping the pace relentless. This format has been crafted to eliminate downtime and maximize audience engagement, both in stadiums and online.

One of the standout innovations is PicklePlay, a bold tactical element allowing coaches to substitute players mid-match for five serves. This strategic move can be used anytime after the first five minutes, but only once per tie per player. Designed to keep fans on the edge of their seats, PicklePlay adds a layer of unpredictability, testing the adaptability of players and coaches.

In the case of ties, WPBL deploys a unique tiebreaker system, replacing traditional scoring with rally scoring. Here, the first team or player to reach seven points clinches victory, guaranteeing a nail-biting finish to every match.

The league’s structure includes five matches in each tie, covering men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Teams are awarded three points for outright wins and two points for tiebreaker wins, with the overall winner decided by the number of matches won in the tie.

WPBL’s visionary Co-founder and CEO, Gaurav Natekar, emphasized the impact of these innovations, stating, “Our goal is to elevate pickleball to new heights. With thrilling timed matches, strategic substitutions through PicklePlay, and high-stakes finishes, WPBL promises to deliver an unparalleled sporting experience.”

Viewers can catch the live-action on Sony Sports Network and FanCode, while tickets for in-stadium games are available on Swiggy Scenes. As WPBL redefines pickleball, it positions itself as a high-energy global sporting spectacle, with a focus on inclusivity, strategy, and entertainment.

By combining intense gameplay with tactical brilliance, WPBL is set to make its mark as a revolutionary force in the world of pickleball. Fans across the globe are gearing up to witness this transformative league in action.