Mumbai, India, January 23, 2025: Dilli Dillwale, the dynamic and star-studded Delhi Franchise of the prestigious World Pickleball League (WPL), proudly announce that Former Indian cricketer and global sports icon, Sunil Gavaskar along with Former Indian Cricketer and commentator Rohan Gavaskar have joined the Delhi franchise as Co-Owners, bringing unparalleled legacy, leadership, and passion for sports to the world of pickleball.
The Dilli Dillwale team is composed of an elite lineup of eight world-class athletes from across the globe, boasting an impressive combined tally of 60 gold medals in international competitions. The team’s roster includes champions hailing from the United States, Taiwan, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, India, and Japan, making it a truly global powerhouse in the fast-growing sport of pickleball.
Commenting on his association with Dilli Dillwale, Sunil Gavaskar shared his excitement: “Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and I am thrilled to be a part of this exciting journey with Dilli Dillwale. The team embodies the spirit of resilience, teamwork, and global unity – values that resonate deeply with me. I am looking forward to the team adding to the 60 gold medals they already have in what promises to be a truly rip roaring tournament “
With Gavaskar’s involvement, Dilli Dillwale aims to elevate the profile of pickleball in India and beyond, fostering a new era of opportunities for athletes and enthusiasts alike. His deep-rooted passion for sports, coupled with his legendary status in cricket, will provide invaluable inspiration and leadership to the team as they prepare for an action-packed season in the WPL.
Ankiti Bose, Founding Partner at Terra-Invest, Team Owners of Dilli Dillwale, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:
“Having the Gavaskars join our team as Co-Owners is a momentous occasion for Smashers and Dilli Dillwale. Their presence adds incredible value, vision and sports legacy that will help us achieve new heights in the World Pickleball League and grow the sport across India.”
Welcoming the Gavaskars to the league, Gaurav Natekar – Co-Founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League said, “We are honoured to welcome Sunil Gavaskar and Rohan Gavaskar to the WPBL family as co-owners of the Dilli Dillwale. Our families go back a long way, and Mr. Sunil Gavaskar is a true-blue legend of Indian sport. His legendary status adds immense credibility and stature to the World Pickleball League, and his co-ownership underscores the value, potential and promise of the league.”
The World Pickleball League, which is rapidly gaining traction across international markets, brings together the finest players from around the world, competing at the highest level with an electrifying mix of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. Other team owners in the league include Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Film Director Atlee, Riteish Deshmukh and Swiggy Founder Sriharsha Majety.