Why Do Indians Call Pickleball Paddles ‘Pickleball Bats’? The Simple Truth

In this blog, we explain why many Indians call pickleball paddles “pickleball bats.” It’s a funny mix-up that comes from cricket culture. Let’s look at the real reasons behind this trend in India.

The Paddle vs. Bat Confusion

Pickleball paddles are flat, solid tools made for accurate shots. But in India, people often say “pickleball bats” or even “pickleball rackets.” This confuses new players and causes small debates online.

This habit comes directly from cricket — the most loved sport in India. A cricket bat looks somewhat similar to a pickleball paddle when you swing it, so people naturally use the word “bat.”

In cities like Mumbai and Vadodara, players use both words, and “pickleball bats” has become the most common way to search for pickleball gear. It’s not wrong — it’s just how people talk here.

This mix-up also appears in fun online content - many Indian Pickleball GIF clips show players joking about the “bat vs paddle” confusion.

How Cricket Influences ‘Pickleball Bats’

Cricket rules India. Almost everyone grows up hearing and using the word “bat.” So when people see a pickleball paddle — short handle, wide face — their mind instantly says “bat.”

Indian pickleball players on Reddit also joke about how easily this happens.

If you hold a pickleball paddle next to a cricket bat, you can see why the word “bat” comes up so often. That’s why “pickleball bats” is popular in stores and online shopping sites.

Who Started Pickleball in India?

Pickleball first came to India in 2008 when Sunil Valavalkar introduced the sport in Mumbai. He saw how fun and beginner-friendly it was and began teaching it in schools and local clubs. From there, small communities started forming in cities like Pune, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad. As the sport grew, more players joined in, equipment became easier to find, and the word “bat” slowly became part of India’s pickleball language — thanks to our cricket-first mindset.

Table Tennis Bats Add More Confusion

Table tennis adds another layer to this mix. Indians have always called table tennis paddles “bats,” even though they don’t have strings. Pickleball paddles feel similar — solid, grippy, no strings — so people naturally use the same word.

Even British English sometimes uses “bat” for paddles, and this habit grew stronger in India because of cricket.

That’s why searches like “pickleball bats” keep increasing — it matches the everyday language people use.

Why Indians Prefer ‘Pickleball Bats’ Over ‘Pickleball Paddles’

In international pickleball, the correct word is “paddle” because the design is different from tennis rackets. But in India, “paddle” sounds unfamiliar, while “bat” feels normal and simple.

Using “bat” actually helps the sport grow faster because people instantly understand it.

Even professional players in India sometimes mix up the words during casual conversations. Many blogs point it out, but the term “bat” stays because it feels easier.

Pickleball Setup Cost in India

Starting pickleball in India is surprisingly affordable. A good beginner-friendly paddle (or “bat,” as most Indians say) costs between ₹1,200 and ₹4,000. Brands like Strokess offer high-quality paddles at reasonable prices, which makes it easy for new players to start without spending too much. Court fees are also budget-friendly, and clubs - especially places like 3rd Shot by Strokess in Vadodara - offer hourly sessions for all skill levels. This affordable pricing is one big reason pickleball is growing so fast across the country.

India vs. Global Naming Difference

Around the world, people always use the term “pickleball paddle” — in official tournaments, product guides, and all pickleball discussions. But in India, players sometimes say “racket” because of tennis and badminton. Still, the word “bat” becomes the most common because cricket is such a big part of daily life. Players in Vadodara even say “bat” on the court all the time, showing how normal the word has become.

This difference in naming actually helps the sport grow. Many Indians search online for “pickleball bats,” so it brings more people into pickleball. Local brands like Strokess make high-quality pickleball paddles that fit perfectly with what Indian players are looking for.

How Cricket Culture Shapes the Trend

Cricket is almost a part of daily life in India. Kids grow up dreaming of hitting big shots with a bat. So when pickleball arrives, the word “bat” automatically fits in.

Courts in Bengaluru, Delhi, and other cities often use the same word. It makes buying pickleball gear feel simple and familiar.

People don’t usually correct it because it creates a friendly vibe. “Pass the pickleball bat!” sounds natural to most Indians.

The Good Side of Calling Them ‘Pickleball Bats’

Using “pickleball bats” actually helps new players feel comfortable. It lowers confusion and makes the sport more inviting. More people try pickleball, more courts fill up, and more paddles (or bats) get sold.

Pickleball Market in India

The pickleball market in India has exploded in the last few years. More courts are opening, tournaments are happening every month, and Indian brands like Strokess are creating high-quality paddles designed for local playing styles. Cities such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad have seen a big rise in new players, and online searches for terms like “pickleball bats” and “pickleball gear” keep climbing. This growth shows how India is building its own identity in the sport — including its unique way of naming the equipment.

Final Thoughts

Indians call pickleball paddles “pickleball bats” mainly because of cricket and table tennis habits. The wide face, the action of hitting the ball, and years of using the word “bat” make it feel natural.

It’s a fun and unique part of India’s pickleball culture. The next time you hear someone say “pickleball bat,” just smile — it’s our own Indian twist.