Srinagar, October 13, 2025 – The paddle-wielding warriors of Jammu & Kashmir have etched their names in the annals of emerging sports history, as the Jammu & Kashmir Pickleball Association (JKPA) triumphantly wrapped up the State Pickleball Selection Trials 2025 on October 12 at the WHS Sports Hub in Sonwar Bagh. This electrifying two-day showdown, held from October 11-12, not only showcased blistering rallies and strategic smashes but also solidified pickleball’s rising stature in the Union Territory, propelling top talents toward the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) Nationals 2025.Backed by the IPA, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the trials drew a fervent contingent of athletes from across J&K, competing fiercely in a spectrum of categories: Under-14, Under-16, Under-18, Open, 30+, and 40+.
The courts buzzed with over 100 participants, blending youthful exuberance with veteran finesse, as dinks, drives, and drops decided destinies under the watchful eyes of selectors and spectators alike. In a nod to inclusivity, the event highlighted both singles and doubles formats, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for the paddle sport that’s captivating global audiences.Emerging as the undisputed champions of the day were Abid Hussain in the Open Men’s Singles, Parth Sharma in the Under-18 Boys’ category, and Mohit Kumar in the 30+ Men’s division – each clinching their spots with commanding performances that blended precision and power. Ragini and Umang Gupta dominated the Open Mixed Doubles, while Sumit Sharma, who struck gold on opening day in the 40+ Men’s Singles by edging out Indu Bhushan 11-5, continued to inspire with his seasoned prowess. Young guns like the Under-14 winners lit up the junior courts, signaling a promising pipeline of talent ready to volley into nationals. “These trials weren’t just about winning; they were about igniting passion and building resilience in our youth,” beamed Farid Singh, JKPA President, whose vision has transformed pickleball from a novelty to a competitive force in Kashmir’s sports tapestry.The closing ceremony doubled as a celebration of synergy, graced by dignitaries including Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister of J&K, and Riki Singh, Chairman of Woodlands House School. Wani lauded the JKPA’s grassroots initiatives, emphasizing how such events bridge urban-rural divides and empower women and underprivileged players through targeted outreach.
Certificates and medals gleamed under the Srinagar sun, as Viraj Singh, JKPA Secretary, echoed the sentiment: “We’re proud of our athletes and grateful to our partners for fueling pickleball’s growth in the Union Territory. This is just the beginning.”For J&K, where cricket and football have long reigned, pickleball’s ascent – a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong – represents a refreshing pivot toward accessible, low-impact sports ideal for all ages. With over 200 new players registered via JKPA academies this year, the trials underscore a broader renaissance in adventure and recreational athletics, from Gulmarg’s trails to Srinagar’s courts. As the selected squad gears up for the IPA Nationals, eyes are already on international horizons, including the Asia Pickleball Open where Indian teams recently shone.In the shadow of the Zabarwan hills, Srinagar’s pickleball pioneers have served notice: J&K is paddling toward podiums, one rally at a time. The IPA Nationals await – and with them, the chance to smash stereotypes and score big for the Valley’s vibrant youth
