India Appoints Coaching Team for 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam

India has officially announced its coaching staff for the upcoming 2026 Pickleball World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Da Nang, Vietnam, from August 30 to September 6. The coaching team comprises three distinguished members: Rahul Belwal, Dhiren Patel, and Manish Rao. Belwal will take the helm of the Open team, while Patel will lead the Juniors team, and Rao will serve as both coach and manager for the Seniors team. Dhiren Patel, who holds the position of Chief National Coach for India, is recognized as one of the pioneering PPR-certified coaches in the nation. His training in the United States has equipped him with valuable skills, and he has accumulated numerous domestic age-group titles. Patel has been instrumental in the development of junior players, showcasing his commitment to nurturing young talent in the sport.

Rahul Belwal brings a wealth of experience as both a player and coach. He recently achieved success by winning the Men's 30+ Doubles title at the Haryana Open PWR 400, partnering with Rohan Bhatnagar. His coaching experience includes leading a team in the Indian Pickleball League, further solidifying his credentials in the sport. Manish Rao has been a pivotal figure in promoting and managing pickleball in India for many years. He previously served as the head coach during India's campaign in the 2025 World Cup, showcasing his leadership abilities and deep understanding of the game. This year, India is set to field five teams in the World Cup, competing across various categories including Open, Juniors (U-18), Kids (U-14), and age groups of 50+ and 60+. The Open team will be captained by Harsh Mehta, who recently clinched gold medals at both the PPA Tour Asia event in Malaysia and the Japan Open, in addition to securing a bronze at the US Open. Arjun Singh will take charge of the Juniors team, while Veer Shah will lead the Kids team, ensuring a strong representation from India.