Aarin Ballani and Taksh Parekh
PANAJI
Goa’s players are making a strong mark at the 9th All India Pickleball Nationals in Jammu, with several advancing to the medal rounds across multiple categories.
Tvisha Sardesai has stormed into the semifinals of the U16 Girls Singles, while in the boys’ section, Aarin Ballani (U14) and Taksh Parekh (U16) have also booked their semifinal spots. The promising pair of Aarin Ballani and Taksh Parekh have entered the quarterfinals of the Boys U16 Doubles, underlining Goa’s emerging strength in the youth categories.
Goa’s veteran players have been equally impressive. Audrey Menezes has sealed her place in the finals of the 50+ Women’s Singles, while Noel Noronha has entered the finals of the 50+ Men’s Singles, and James Anderson has made it to the finals of the 60+ Men’s Singles. Meanwhile, Rajaram Kundaikar has reached the semifinals of the 35+ Men’s Singles, while Nihaal Borkar put up a spirited fight to make the pre-quarterfinals in the same category. Ajay Sardesai and Vinod Parkkot have reached the quarterfinals of the 50+ Doubles, while the experienced duo of James Anderson and Parag Joshi have powered their way to the finals of the 60+ Men’s Doubles. In other notable results, Wilfred Jacques and Noel Noronha made it to the pre-quarterfinals of the 50+ Doubles.
With strong performances across age groups, Team Goa has underlined its growing stature in Indian Pickleball. As the championship enters its closing stages, expectations are high for a rich medal haul for Goa. The prestigious event, being organised by the J & K Amateur Pickleball Association under the aegis of the All India Pickleball Association concludes on Sunday.
