Category: Sports

  • Junior shuttlers hear the Chicago Bulls lesson as Daaji addresses HGBA finals in Hyderabad

    Heartfulness Global Guide Shri Kamlesh Patel shares insights from Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson while Dev Ruparelia and Tanvi Patri clinch U 19 singles titles

    Hyderabad, 10 January 2026: The Yonex Sunrise All India Junior Ranking Badminton Tournament 2026 Under 19 concluded at the Heartfulness Gopichand Badminton Academy with a closing ceremony that brought together young athletes, coaches, and officials from across the country. The event was graced by Kamlesh Patel, affectionately known as Daaji, who addressed the finalists and participants at the conclusion of the tournament.
    Speaking to the young shuttlers, Shri Kamlesh Patel delivered a message on the role of inner balance and perspective in sport, encouraging players to treat both victory and defeat as part of a larger life journey. He urged athletes to remain grounded and committed to their practice, noting that dedication to the sport itself is a marker of success.

    Drawing from global sports history, Shri Kamlesh Patel shared the story of basketball legend Michael Jordan and his coach Phil Jackson, describing how the Chicago Bulls evolved into a championship winning team. He highlighted how the introduction of group meditation under Jackson’s leadership played a key role in improving coordination, focus, and team synergy. He added that a similar approach later contributed to championship success when Jackson coached the Los Angeles Lakers.
    Elaborating on the concept of inner focus, Shri Kamlesh Patel explained that meditation helps awaken hidden potential and enhances intuitive awareness, enabling athletes to respond more effectively during competition. Referring to the Bhagavad Gita teaching “Yoga karmasu kausalam,” he said that excellence in action can be achieved through inner discipline, whether in sports, academics, or everyday life.

    The address concluded with a video presentation illustrating the impact of meditation on Michael Jordan’s career. Shri Kamlesh Patel encouraged the players to incorporate meditation into their daily routines, even briefly before matches, to cultivate clarity and composure under pressure.
    On the court, the tournament delivered competitive performances across categories. In the Boys’ Singles Under 19 final, Dev Ruparelia of Maharashtra defeated Nishchal Chand of Uttar Pradesh with a score of 21 19, 22 20. The Girls’ Singles Under 19 title was claimed by Tanvi Patri of Odisha, who overcame Tanvi Reddy Andluri of Telangana State 23 21, 21 16.

    In the doubles events, Charan Ram Thippana and Hari Krishna Veeram Reddy of Andhra Pradesh secured the Boys’ Doubles Under 19 title, while Diya Bheemaiah B of Karnataka and Baruni Parshwal of Haryana won the Girls’ Doubles crown. The Mixed Doubles Under 19 title went to Bjorn Jaison of Kerala and Diya Bheemaiah B of Karnataka.
    Sanctioned by the Badminton Association of India, the eight day tournament saw participation from over 1,100 players representing 28 states and eight union territories at Kanha Shanti Vanam. With the conclusion of the finals, the selection process will now move toward finalising the Indian squad for the European leg of the Junior International circuit, including the Dutch and German Junior Internationals scheduled for February 2026.
    The Heartfulness Gopichand Badminton Academy, located at Kanha Shanti Vanam in Hyderabad, is a collaborative initiative between the Heartfulness Institute and Padma Bhushan Pullela Gopichand. The academy integrates high performance badminton training with Heartfulness meditation practices, supporting athletes in achieving excellence both on and off the court.
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  • Beyond the Classroom, KLH Global Business School Students Extend Their Sporting Trajectory

    From national athletics podiums to international championship appearances, students advance beyond campus competition

    KLH Global Business School has seen its students move steadily beyond campus level competition, with performances across athletics, shooting, and tennis translating into national recognition and international exposure. The outcomes reflect sustained preparation and competitive discipline alongside academic engagement.
    Among the individual milestones, first year BBA student Dhanush Srikanth has been nominated for the Arjuna Award in Air Rifle Shooting, following a series of consistent performances at the national level. In athletics, BBA student M. Venkat Rami Reddy secured a gold medal in the 800 metre event at the Khelo India University Games 2025, held in Rajasthan, adding to the institution’s growing presence in competitive track events.

    Further extending the school’s sporting footprint beyond national competition, Mogli Venkata Ram Reddy earned a bronze medal in the 800 metre event at the 4th South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025. The result placed a KLH Global Business School student on an international podium, highlighting progression from university circuits to senior level competition.
    Team sport performances also contributed to the year’s momentum. Students from KLH Global Business School, along with participants from the KL Vijayawada and KLH Aziznagar campuses, competed in the South Zone Inter University Tennis Tournament 2025, a knockout format event that drew teams from leading institutions across South India. The combined contingent recorded one winner finish and two runners up positions.

    In the women’s category, third year BBA student Muruga Sera Anjum played a key role in the team’s performance. The men’s matches saw strong contributions from third year BBA student Nashik Reddy and second year BBA student Dheeraj Reddy. Following the tournament, all three players were selected for the All India Inter University Team and the upcoming Khelo India University Games 2026.
    Commenting on the progression of student athletes, Er. Koneru Lakshman Havish, Vice President of KL Deemed to be University, said inter university competition requires long term preparation, discipline, and mental resilience. He noted that the range of outcomes, from award nominations to podium finishes and national team selections, reflects students’ ability to balance academic responsibility with sustained sporting commitment.

    KLH Global Business School views these developments as part of a broader culture that supports structured training and competitive integrity. Beyond medals and selections, the results signal continuity and progression, as students move through higher levels of representation while maintaining the values associated with university sport.
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  • From the Pitch to the Fairway, New Zealand Cricket Hosts Business Engagement in Mumbai

    Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and NZC executive Glenn Critchley joined business leaders at an invite only Golf Day organised with TCM Sports

    Mumbai, January 6, 2026: New Zealand Cricket hosted an exclusive business engagement event in Mumbai, bringing together members of the touring New Zealand men’s cricket team and senior leaders from India’s corporate community. The New Zealand Cricket Golf Day was held at the Willingdon Sports Club and organised in partnership with TCM Sports, a long term commercial partner of New Zealand Cricket.
    The invite only event created a premium networking environment that blended sport, leadership, and relationship building beyond the cricket field. It formed part of New Zealand Cricket’s broader efforts to strengthen engagement with partners and stakeholders in key international markets, including India.

    Several members of the touring squad participated in the event, including ODI captain Michael Bracewell, along with Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Zak Foulkes, Henry Nicholls, and Adi Ashok. Assistant coaches Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram were also present, offering guests an opportunity to interact with players and coaching staff in an informal setting.
    Senior representation noting New Zealand Cricket’s commercial strategy was led by Glenn Critchley, Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer, who joined business leaders for discussions around sport, leadership, and long term partnerships. Patrick Rata, New Zealand High Commissioner to India, also attended the event, highlighting the importance of sporting and cultural engagement in strengthening ties between New Zealand and India.

    Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Glenn Critchley said New Zealand Cricket’s global identity has been built on consistent performance, strong values, and a progressive outlook. He noted that initiatives such as the Golf Day allow the organisation to celebrate its legacy while engaging with partners in a more personal and meaningful manner, particularly in markets like India that play a central role in world cricket.
    The golf sessions were followed by an evening programme featuring two moderated chat sessions with players and coaches, where attendees gained insights into team culture, leadership experiences, and life on the international cricket circuit. The day concluded with a closed door dinner and networking interaction among invited guests.

    TCM Sports has played a key role over the years in developing platforms that connect New Zealand Cricket with business communities across regions. The Golf Day reflected a shared vision of creating focused engagement formats that prioritise quality interaction over scale.
    The event was supported by Mahindra Lifespaces as Presenting Partner and Mahindra Auto as Co Presenting Partner. The New Zealand men’s team is currently in India for a three match ODI and five match T20I series, with fixtures scheduled to begin on January 11.
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  • Final Match Outcomes Logged for Pickleball Pro and Challenger League Season 2 

    Hyderabad Vikings and Delhi Snipers secured first-place finishes in Pro and Challenger divisions.

    Final match outcomes for Season 2 of the Pro and Challenger Pickleball League were recorded in Mumbai following the conclusion of league fixtures and the Pickleball Grand Slam 2025. The competitions were conducted at the TSG x Global Sports Pickleball Center at Andheri Sports Complex and marked the completion of a week-long schedule of league and open-category matches.
    In the Pro League finals, Hyderabad Vikings secured first place after defeating Bengaluru Blazers by a 3–2 margin. The result was recorded after the Vikings recovered from a 0–2 deficit. Ahmedabad Olympians finished third in the Pro League standings.

    In the Challenger League finals, Delhi Snipers secured first place with a 3–2 win over Mumbai Chhatrapati Warriors. Jaipur Stallions placed third in the Challenger League category.
    Most Valuable Player awards were presented following the completion of league matches. Randy Blanco, representing Hyderabad Vikings, was named Most Valuable Player of the Pro League. Asmi Sapra, representing Delhi Snipers, was named Most Valuable Player of the Challenger League.

    Alongside the league competitions, the Pickleball Grand Slam 2025 recorded participation across multiple professional categories. In the Pro category, the following results were logged: Men’s Doubles was won by Quang Duong and Harsh Mehta; Women’s Doubles by Megan Fudge and Roos Van Reek; Mixed Doubles by Sofia Sewing and Casey Diamond. The Women’s Singles title was secured by Sofia Sewing, while the Men’s Singles title was secured by Ronan Jack Camron.
    Across league and Grand Slam formats, the event recorded more than 3,600 matches, participation from approximately 1,500 players representing over 16 countries, and entries from 26 Indian states. League competitions included 100 players from nine countries.

    The Pro and Challenger League matches were broadcast nationally on ZEE5, Zee Café, and &flix, with live streaming available globally on YouTube.
    The competitions were organised by Global Sports Pickleball, which manages pickleball infrastructure, tournaments, and league formats across India and select international locations. Season 2 concluded with all scheduled league fixtures and Grand Slam matches completed as per format.
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  • From Doha to Muscat, T20 World Cup Trophy Tour Engages Fans Across Qatar and Oman 

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World reached cultural landmarks, public spaces, and educational institutions in both nations.

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour continued its global journey through the Middle East, completing its Qatar and Oman legs with a series of public, cultural, and sporting engagements aimed at bringing fans closer to the tournament. Supported by DP World, the tour connected communities, students, and cricket followers across key cities and landmark locations in both countries.
    The Middle East leg followed the trophy’s ceremonial launch at Adam’s Bridge, known in India as Ram Setu, before arriving in Qatar. In Doha, the trophy made a symbolic entry via a traditional dhow at the Doha Corniche, set against the city’s skyline. The arrival highlighted Qatar’s maritime heritage while reflecting its growing presence in international sport.

    During its journey across the country, the trophy visited several of Qatar’s recognised landmarks, including Sealine Beach, Aspire Zone also known as Doha Sports City, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, and Lusail Boulevard. These stops allowed fans to engage with the trophy in public settings while showcasing Qatar’s mix of heritage, culture, and modern development.
    Community engagement formed a central part of the Qatar leg. The trophy was displayed at a major public gathering space in the presence of national players, representatives from embassies, and community leaders. Fans participated in on-ground activities and photo interactions, turning the visit into a shared celebration of cricket.

    Educational outreach was another focus area, with the trophy visiting institutions such as Birla Public School, UDST University, and Qatar Foundation. Thousands of students had the opportunity to see the trophy up close, reinforcing the role of sport in inclusion and youth engagement. At Qatar Foundation, special interactions were held with children with autism, underscoring the tour’s emphasis on accessibility through sport.
    The Qatar leg also included a dedicated activation at Asian Town, recognising the South Asian workforce that contributes significantly to the country’s development and shares a strong connection with cricket. The visit concluded with the trophy displayed at sunset across the desert landscape, bringing the country chapter of the tour to a close.
    Following Qatar, the trophy travelled to Oman, where it continued its outreach through a blend of sporting venues, cultural landmarks, and public spaces. The Oman itinerary included stops at Muttrah Fort, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman Across Ages Museum, Jabal Akhdar Viewpoint, and Qurum Beach, offering scenic settings for fan engagement and media interactions.

    Youth outreach remained central to the Oman leg, with visits to Indian School Muscat and Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir. Students at both schools were given the opportunity to view the trophy, strengthening grassroots engagement and fostering early connections with the global tournament.
    The trophy also visited the Oman Cricket Academy, where members of the senior men’s team, including captain Jatinder Singh, head coach Duleep Mendis, and deputy head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, were present alongside the Under-19 men’s team and the senior women’s team with their coaching staff. The interactions created shared moments across teams and age groups, reinforcing cricket’s growing footprint in the country.

    Through activations across landmark locations, educational institutions, and sporting venues, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour continues to build anticipation ahead of the tournament. Fans worldwide can follow the journey through the official social media handle ICC Trophy Tour.
    General ticket sales for the tournament have commenced, with entry-level pricing starting at ₹100 at select venues in India and LKR 1,000 in Sri Lanka. Tickets are available through the official booking platform.

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held from 7 February to 8 March 2026 across venues in India and Sri Lanka, including Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo, and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
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  • A coastal run with a green purpose as SBI Green Marathon Season 6 reaches Thiruvananthapuram 

    Over 3,800 participants gather at Shangumugham Beach as the coastal city adds momentum to the nationwide Run for a Greener India movement

    A coastal run with a green purpose unfolded in Thiruvananthapuram as the city hosted the SBI Green Marathon Season 6 at Shangumugham Beach, bringing together fitness, environmental awareness, and community participation. Held on December 24, 2025, the event marked the marathon’s arrival in Kerala’s capital after energising cities across the country, including Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad.
    As the sun rose over the Arabian Sea, Shangumugham Beach became the backdrop for a morning defined by movement and mindfulness. Known for its close relationship with nature and a lifestyle rooted in wellness, Thiruvananthapuram provided a fitting setting for the Run for a Greener India initiative, which continues to emphasise sustainability alongside physical fitness.

    More than 3,800 participants took part in the event, representing a diverse cross section of the community. Seasoned runners, students, families, organised fitness groups, and defence personnel came together not only to test endurance but also to collectively endorse environmental responsibility and healthier ways of living. The turnout reflected growing public engagement with initiatives that combine sport with social purpose.
    The marathon was flagged off by senior representatives of State Bank of India, reaffirming the institution’s focus on sustainability and community well being. The dignitaries included Shri KV Bangarraju, Chief General Manager, Shri Rajesh Kumar Meena, General Manager Network 2, Shri Manmohan Swain, General Manager Network 3, and Shri Ashutosh Rai, Deputy General Manager and Chief Development Officer. Their presence underscored the bank’s continued support for initiatives that link nation building with environmental consciousness.

    Staying aligned with its eco first approach, the SBI Green Marathon delivered a race experience designed to minimise environmental impact. Participants received organic T shirts, plantable bibs, and reusable cloth goodie bags as alternatives to single use materials. Black alkaline water was provided to support hydration and post run recovery, while dedicated waste management systems ensured responsible segregation and disposal throughout the venue.
    Adding energy to the morning was RJ Angel, whose presence and interactions kept both runners and spectators engaged from the flag off to the finish. The event atmosphere blended enthusiasm with a shared sense of purpose, reinforcing the idea that sustainability driven initiatives can also be inclusive and celebratory.

    The marathon featured 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon categories, all conducted on AIMS certified routes. This ensured global standard course measurement and a professional racing experience for participants. The coastal stretches along Shangumugham Beach, combined with cool sea breezes and open pathways, made the run both refreshing and memorable for runners across categories.
    With each stride along the shoreline, Thiruvananthapuram reaffirmed its commitment to environmental awareness, collective action, and holistic well being. From the sunrise flag off to the eco conscious post run activities, the city added a meaningful chapter to the marathon’s 17 city journey.
    As SBI Green Marathon Season 6 continues across India, the Thiruvananthapuram edition stands as a reminder that when communities run together with intent, every step contributes to a greener tomorrow.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
  • Film Personalities Add Courtside Presence at Global Sports Pickleball League Season 2

    Actors Ronit Roy and Rohit Roy were seen attending matches and interacting with league founders, team owners, and players during the Pro and Challenger League Season 2 and Grand Slam 2025

    The ongoing Global Sports Pro and Challenger Pickleball League Season 2 and Grand Slam 2025 witnessed a noticeable courtside presence as noted film personalities Ronit Roy and Rohit Roy attended several matches, engaging with players, team owners, and league organisers. Their appearance added to the growing interest surrounding the league, which continues to draw attention from both sports enthusiasts and the wider public.
    Ronit Roy and Rohit Roy were seen closely following the on-court action, spending time with league founders and interacting with members of the Ahmedabad Olympians Pro Squad. The actors were also photographed with filmmaker Shashank Khaitan, who is among the league’s founders, reflecting the growing crossover between India’s sports and entertainment communities.

    India’s largest pickleball league has been drawing steady crowds, with spectators turning up in large numbers to watch competitive matches featuring leading Indian and international players. The league structure brings together the Pro and Challenger categories, offering opportunities for seasoned athletes as well as emerging players to compete across age groups and genders.
    Matches during Season 2 and the Grand Slam 2025 have been marked by fast paced rallies and closely contested encounters, contributing to a lively atmosphere inside the venues. Fans have been seen actively engaging with players and teams, underlining the league’s emphasis on accessibility and spectator involvement.

    The Global Sports Pickleball League has positioned itself as a platform that brings together athletes, fans, and partners within a single competitive ecosystem. By combining structured league play with fan engagement initiatives and high visibility events, the league continues to build momentum for pickleball in India.
    Organisers note that the growing presence of public figures at matches reflects the sport’s expanding cultural footprint. Pickleball, once limited to smaller recreational circles, is increasingly being recognised as a competitive sport with mass appeal. The league’s ability to attract attention beyond traditional sporting audiences has contributed to its rapid growth.

    With Indian and international players competing side by side, the league also highlights the sport’s inclusive nature. Its format allows participation across demographics, reinforcing pickleball’s image as a game that is accessible yet competitive.
    As Season 2 progresses alongside the Grand Slam 2025, the Global Sports Pickleball League continues to strengthen its position within India’s evolving sports landscape. Featured by Prittle Prattle News, virtuous journalism for a thoughtful world, the league’s blend of competitive sport, audience engagement, and cultural crossover signals pickleball’s emergence as a sport with growing national relevance.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Dino Morea Steps In as ASICS Brings Marathon Preparations to Mumbai Retail Floor

    ASICS executives, partners and members of the running community attended the Mumbai showcase ahead of the 2026 race calendar

    ASICS marked seventeen years of its association with the Tata Mumbai Marathon by unveiling the GEL NIMBUS 28 at a Mumbai retail showcase, signalling the brand’s preparations for the 2026 marathon season. The event, held at the ASICS store on Linking Road, brought together company leadership, event partners and members of the city’s running community, with actor and fitness enthusiast Dino Morea in attendance.
    The launch underscored ASICS’ long standing relationship with the Tata Mumbai Marathon, where it continues as the Sports Goods Partner for the 2026 edition. Over the years, the marathon has grown into one of India’s most visible platforms for distance running, and ASICS’ presence has remained closely tied to the evolution of the country’s endurance sports culture.

    The GEL NIMBUS 28 was introduced as the hero running shoe for the upcoming marathon season. Known globally for its cushioning and comfort, the latest version features a weight reduction of over twenty grams compared to the previous model. The update is designed to deliver a smoother running experience while retaining the core characteristics that have made the shoe a preferred choice among long distance runners.
    Alongside the footwear, ASICS also revealed its limited edition Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 merchandise. The SM Graphic T Shirt draws inspiration from Mumbai’s Coastal Road, using its structure and layout as a visual representation of progress, connection and movement. The merchandise range also includes performance focused apparel and accessories such as the two in one four inch shorts, mesh caps and light mesh ankle socks, aimed at supporting runners through training and race day conditions.

    Speaking at the event, Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, said that running is emerging as a central pillar of India’s growing performance sports ecosystem. He noted that the brand’s association with the Tata Mumbai Marathon reflects a long term belief in platforms that encourage active lifestyles, adding that the introduction of the GEL NIMBUS 28 represents ASICS’ continued effort to bring global innovation to Indian runners. He also highlighted the brand’s focus on science backed products and its emphasis on the connection between mind and body.

    Anil Singh, Managing Director, Procam International, described ASICS as an integral part of the Tata Mumbai Marathon journey. He said the brand’s ongoing involvement continues to energise the event as preparations begin for its twenty first edition, which is expected to once again draw the city together through sport and community participation.
    The Mumbai showcase was attended by ASICS executives, partners and runners, reinforcing the brand’s engagement with the local running ecosystem. The event also reflected ASICS’ broader presence across India’s road racing calendar, where it partners with events such as the New Delhi Marathon, the TCS World 10K in Bengaluru and the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon.

    With the unveiling of its latest footwear and marathon merchandise, ASICS has positioned itself firmly for the 2026 season, continuing its focus on performance led design, community engagement and long term investment in India’s distance running landscape.
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  • A Golden Gallop for India as Ashish Limaye Tops Asian Equestrian Podium

    Supported by Embassy Group and Silva Storai, Limaye’s win ends a four-decade wait for individual continental gold in equestrian

    Ashish Limaye has made history at the Asian Equestrian Championships by securing India’s first-ever individual gold in eventing. Riding his trusted partner Willy Be Dun, Limaye delivered a winning total score of 29.4, a landmark achievement for Indian equestrian sport and the nation’s first individual continental gold since 1982.
    The Indian team, featuring Limaye, Shashank Kanumuri, and Shashank Kataria, also brought home a silver medal in the team event with a combined score of 121.8, just behind Thailand’s 117.6. The double podium finish reflects a turning point for India on the continental equestrian stage.

    Speaking after the win, Limaye said, “It has been a long journey, but today it all feels worth it. After the last Asian Games, when I was leading and had a blank moment, I felt I let everyone down. This is redemption. I’m grateful to Jitu Virwani, Embassy Group, and Silva Storai of Embassy International Riding School for believing in me and my efforts.”
    Embassy International Riding School, led by Director Silva Storai, has provided Limaye with consistent training and support over the years. Backed by Jitu Virwani, Chairman of Embassy Group, the school has built a robust ecosystem for equestrian excellence and has been instrumental in nurturing India’s emerging talents in the sport.

    Limaye also acknowledged his trainers Carola Bierlein and Jerome Robine, his family, and everyone who contributed to his journey. “It takes a village to get here, and my horse Willy Be Dun is at the top of that list,” he said.
    This victory marks more than a medal. It is a powerful message for Indian equestrian sport, showing what is possible when talent is backed by structured training and long-term vision. With the right support, Indian riders can rise to the top of international podiums and inspire the next generation to aim higher.

    Ashish Limaye’s golden ride is not just a personal triumph but a national milestone. It reignites belief in India’s potential in equestrian sports and opens the gates for a new era of global recognition.
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  • India’s Pokémon UNITE 2026 qualifiers begin as Skyesports rolls out the national league

    Ten top-tier teams will battle for the lone India berth at the Asia Champions League Finals in Yokohama next year.

    The Pokémon UNITE Asia Champions League (PUACL) 2026 India League has been announced by The Pokémon Company, marking the start of the national qualifiers that will determine India’s representative at the PUACL 2026 Offline Finals in Yokohama, Japan. The India League carries a prize pool of USD 20,000 and will be executed by Skyesports, one of the country’s leading esports tournament operators. This edition brings together ten of India’s prominent esports organisations, reflecting the growth of Pokémon UNITE’s competitive ecosystem in the country and the rising participation seen over the past year.

    The tournament follows a multi-stage format beginning with a five-day Group Stage, scheduled on November 29, November 30, December 14, January 11 and January 18, before concluding with the King of the Hill Playoffs on January 31. The team that emerges as the India League champion will earn the country’s sole berth for the PUACL 2026 Offline Finals, which will take place at the Yokohama Buntai Arena and feature a significantly larger international prize pool.

    With the steady rise of Pokémon UNITE players and teams in India, the 2026 season strengthens the pathway from domestic competition to the Asian championship circuit. The participating teams include Autobotz, GodLike Esports, Marcos Gaming, Meta Ninza, Reckoning Esports, Revenant XSpark, S8UL, Team Tamilas, True Rippers and WELT Esports, forming one of the most competitive national lineups to date. Several of these organisations already have a strong track record across multiple esports titles, raising expectations for a closely fought season.
    Announcing the league, Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO of Skyesports, said that Pokémon UNITE has built a strong and committed competitive community in India. He noted that the return of the Asia Champions League offers teams a platform to demonstrate their capabilities and that executing the India League once again allows Skyesports to provide a clear progression route for Indian players to enter top-tier Asian competition. He added that the mix of ten established organisations sets the stage for an exciting season as India prepares to send a representative to the global finals.

    Matches from the India League will be broadcast live on the official Pokémon UNITE and Skyesports channels, giving fans across the country access to the full tournament. The presence of teams such as S8UL, GodLike Esports, Team Tamilas and Revenant XSpark is expected to raise the level of play further, particularly as last year’s champions, GodLike Esports, return with the aim of reclaiming their national title and improving upon their earlier international performance in Japan, where they exited in the group stage.
    The launch of the PUACL 2026 India League highlights India’s growing footprint in the Pokémon UNITE competitive scene and sets in motion the selection of the national team that will compete among Asia’s best next year in Yokohama.
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