New Delhi [India], January 24: Actress Rakul Preet Singh and actor Jackky Bhagnani have teamed up with KLO Sports as co-owners of the Hyderabad Superstars in the inaugural World Pickleball League, which kicks off in Mumbai on Saturday.
“Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world and is currently being played by people of all ages. Hyderabad Superstars will help popularize the sport further, inspiring players in Hyderabad and across India to strive for excellence. Joining the World Pickleball League is an exciting new chapter in my sports journey, and I wish the team the best of luck,” said Rakul Preet Singh, as quoted by the Hyderabad Superstars press release.
Jackky Bhagnani expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Hyderabad Superstars is all set to make its mark in the World Pickleball League. Pickleball is undoubtedly one of the most loved sports across generations, and we aim to inspire even more people to embrace the sport.”
The Hyderabad Superstars will be led by renowned coach Jonny Andrews, affectionately known as ‘Jonny Pickleball.’ With extensive experience in the sport since 2016, Jonny will be guiding a star-studded roster that includes Indian Pickleball sensation Kuldip Mahajan, alongside international talents such as Max Freeman, Ava Cavataio, Ross Whittaker, Madalina Grigoriu, Karolina Owczarek, Ben Cawston, and Ludovica Sciaky.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani to the Hyderabad Superstars family. Their involvement will undoubtedly inspire players and fans alike. Through this investment, we hope to nurture local talent and create a strong community of Pickleball enthusiasts. Our goal extends beyond building a competitive team; we aim to create an environment where everyone can come together to celebrate the sport,” said Srinath Chittoori, co-owner of KLO Sports.
Sanjay Jupudi, co-owner of KLO Sports, added, “We are excited to embark on this journey into the dynamic world of pickleball with Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani. The World Pickleball League is the perfect platform to elevate the sport’s popularity and discover exceptional talent across India. Hyderabad, with its vibrant sporting culture, has already embraced pickleball, and we are proud to represent the city in this league, contributing to its rich sporting legacy.”
Earlier this month, KLO Sports announced the acquisition of the Hyderabad franchise, named the Hyderabad Superstars, for the World Pickleball League. The WPBL, India’s first global franchise-based pickleball league, was co-founded by former tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar. The inaugural season of the league will run from January 24 to February 2, 2025.
Upcoming Fixtures:
• 25th January 2025: Hyderabad Superstars vs Bengaluru Jawans
• 26th January 2025: Hyderabad Superstars vs Pune United
• 27th January 2025: Hyderabad Superstars vs Mumbai Pickle Power
• 29th January 2025: Hyderabad Superstars vs Dilli Dillwale
• 31st January 2025: Hyderabad Superstars vs Chennai Superchamps