Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has announced the Indian team for the Pickleball World Cup 2026, handing the captaincy to experienced player Harsh Mehta, with the tournament set to take place in Da Nang, Vietnam, from August 30 to September 6.
Squad Announced, Arjun Singh to Lead Under-18 Category
Alongside Harsh Mehta, young player Arjun Singh has also been included in the squad this year and will represent India in the Under-18 category, taking on the captaincy for that age group. The men’s team comprises Harsh Mehta, Arjun Singh, Anish Frolian and Aman Patel, while the women’s team includes Mihika Yadav, Alia Ibrahim, Pearl Amalsadiwala and Naomi Amalsadiwala. Following the selection, team captain Harsh Mehta said that while talent wins matches, it is a united team that becomes champions.
Amalsadiwala Sisters, Naomi-Arjun Pair Among Key Strengths
Women’s team players Pearl Amalsadiwala and Naomi Amalsadiwala have delivered strong performances in domestic competitions over the past year, winning medals across several tournaments including women’s doubles and mixed doubles events. The pairing of Naomi Amalsadiwala and Arjun Singh is considered one of India’s strongest mixed doubles combinations, having recently defeated top-ranked teams in world rankings to prove their capability.
IPA President Expresses Confidence in Balanced Squad
Indian Pickleball Association president Suryaveer Singh Bhullar said India has fielded an exceptionally strong and balanced team this time, adding that under Harsh Mehta’s leadership, the team will travel to Vietnam not merely to compete but with the intention of winning the title. The Indian team, which had won a bronze medal at the previous World Cup, will now enter the tournament aiming for an even bigger achievement.
