Top 5 innings from Virat Kohli that prove he was a red ball superstar

Imagine this. 275 runs needed for the Indian team off 80 overs. The pitch is a sluggish one with a very slow outfield. Team India are two down for 45 runs. In walks Virat Kohli, with his usual swagger and razor-sharp focus.

He cuts, drives, flicks and smacks the ball across all the corners of the ground. With every stroke, the pressure shifts onto the opponent. Suddenly, the scoreboard reads 185/4 with Virat Kohli still standing tall on the ground.

As the game progresses, Virat Kohli takes his team closer to the target. With just 10 needed off the final two overs, he makes sure Team India reaches the target with ease. 

Chasemaster, does it again. 

Well, the time has come when we will not be hearing praises. The near-perfect chases or the perfect cover drive hit by the right-hander. 

The King of Indian Cricket, Virat Premnath Kohli, has decided to call it quits on his Test career. After dominating all three formats for over 15 years, the Indian superstar has decided to retire from red-ball cricket.

From leading India to consecutive WTC finals to becoming the first Indian skipper to win a test series in Australia to the twin hundreds at Adelaide in 2014, Virat has done a tremendous job that made everyone a big supporter of his brand of cricket.

Here, as we go down the memory lane, Team God Of Sports lists down the top 5 innings of Virat Kohli proving why he was a red-ball superstar.

254* vs South Africa, Pune, 2019

Virat Kohli’s career-best Test score came against the South Africans during the 2019 Test series between the two nations. Walking in at 136/2 after the openers laid a solid foundation, Kohli anchored the innings with supreme control, pacing his knock perfectly over nearly eight hours at the crease. 

Virat’s innings was filled with 33 fours and 2 sixes, dismantling the South African bowling attack featuring Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander, and debutant Anrich Nortje.

Kohli’s unbeaten double century helped Team India post a mammoth score of 601/5 dec. and win the second Test by an innings and 137 runs. He was also adjudged the Man of the Match for his marathon innings in Pune.

149 vs England, Edgbaston, 2018

The 2018 Test series against England was one to remember for Kohli and his supporters. After flopping massively in the 2014 series vs England, this series was one where Kohli was on a mission. A mission to control his cover drive striking urges and leave the 4th ball stump.

The right-hander amassed 593 runs at an average of 59.30, including two hundred and three fifties in ten innings. Among the 593 runs, 149 runs out of them came in one specific innings. In the first test at Edgbaston during the 2018 Test series, Kohli scored his very first Test century. During that innings, Kohli constructed a 149-run knock and single-handedly took India to a respectable total. His 22 boundaries and one six put pressure back on the English bowlers.

115 & 141 vs Australia, Adelaide, 2014

This series, widely remembered as MS Dhoni’s last Test series, saw the emergence of a new Test superstar of Indian cricket. Virat Kohli, who had done unbelievable things in white ball cricket, had yet to do anything substantial in red-ball cricket.

Cometh the 2014 Test series down under, a young Virat Kohli unleashed fire on the Aussie bowlers. During the third test of the 2014 tour, the Delhi-born batter smashed twin hundreds (115 & 141), becoming one of the very few Indians to achieve this rare feat.

His second-innings 141 came while India was chasing 364 on a turning track. Though India lost, Kohli’s fearless intent redefined India’s overseas approach in the future.

153 vs South Africa – Centurion, 2018

Everyone knows how difficult South African pitches are to bat on. With the ball swinging both ways in overcast conditions, Virat Kohli produced a knock that no one can ever forget during the South Africa tour of 2018.

In the second test at Centurion, Kohli produced a masterclass, scoring 153 runs off 217 balls. His knock included 15 boundaries and was a mix of elegant stroke play and steely resolve.

Despite such a wonderful knock against the likes of Morne Morkel, Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander, Lungi Ngidi, and Keshav Maharaj, Team India lost the test by 135 runs.  

123 vs Australia, Perth, 2019 

Perth always has the fastest pitch in the entirety of Australia. Having lost the first test against India, Australia went back to basics by preparing a spicy pitch during the 2018-19 tour. But it was no competition for Team India skipper Virat Kohli as he smashed the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins. 

With a careful combination of controlled aggression and mature gameplay, Virat scored 123 runs off 257 balls. He smashed 13 boundaries and one maximum during his stay at the crease.

Despite his valiant effort in the first innings, Team India lost the test by 146 runs.

Conclusion

So, here we were with the 5 innings by Virat Kohli that proved he was not just a white ball superstar. Comment down your thoughts on these innings by the RCB superstar. Also, let us know which one (besides these) is your favourite.

why have prices of badminton feather shuttlecock increased in india

The reason behind sudden increase in Price of Badminton Feather Shuttlecocks

It’s the sport loved by millions across the globe, from casual enthusiasts to professional athletes—badminton. But a crisis has slowly unfolded behind the scenes, one that has taken many by surprise: the shortage of shuttlecocks. This shortage isn’t just a small inconvenience; it’s impacting players and manufacturers in ways many couldn’t have anticipated.

As a person who is actively in the market and trying to understand the economics of it, I started doing my research and the answer was so funny that I thought its fake but then i researched more only to find that it was true. As we know China is the World’s Largest Manufacturer for Badminton Shuttlecocks. But there is something which has led to sudden shortage of supply of Duck and Goose Feathers which means the prices have also increased rapidly.

A Disruption That Started in China

In China, the world’s largest manufacturer of badminton shuttlecocks, the ripple effect began. Shuttlecock suppliers started warning customers of rising prices and reduced stock. At first, it was seen as a temporary issue, perhaps a minor glitch in the supply chain. However, as the weeks went by, the problem became increasingly apparent. Badminton clubs, players, and training centers began to feel the impact.

The cause? A shortage of duck and goose feathers, which are traditionally used to make high-quality shuttlecocks. But how did something as simple as feathers lead to a global shortage?

The Shift to Pig Farming

It all starts in the poultry industry. For years, farmers relied on ducks and geese to supply feathers for shuttlecocks. But the landscape began to shift when farmers realized that pigs offered a much more lucrative option. Driven by rising pork demand, especially in China, pigs became the more profitable choice. Unlike ducks and geese, which take longer to grow and require more space, pigs provide a quicker return and higher margins.

This shift led to fewer ducks and geese being raised, resulting in fewer feathers available for shuttlecock production. And as badminton continued to rise in popularity, especially in countries like China and India, the supply of feathers became insufficient to meet the demand.

The Impact on Shuttlecock Prices

As feathers became harder to find, manufacturers had no choice but to raise prices. The cost of a tube of shuttlecocks increased by over 40% in some regions. For recreational players, this was a huge blow. Clubs and schools that depended on affordable shuttlecocks for training were left scrambling, trying to make their supplies last longer or turning to more affordable alternatives.

But it wasn’t just the prices that were affected. With fewer shuttlecocks available, players found themselves waiting weeks for new shipments. Some even found that the shuttlecocks they had relied on for years were simply unavailable.

Turning to Synthetic Alternatives

As the prices of feathered shuttlecocks soared, players and clubs started looking for solutions. Many turned to synthetic shuttlecocks, made from materials like nylon. These shuttlecocks were more affordable and durable, but they didn’t offer the same performance as feathered shuttlecocks. The flight path and feel were noticeably different, making them less ideal for competitive play. But for training purposes, they were a necessary compromise.

What’s Next for Badminton?

The shortage of badminton shuttlecocks isn’t just an isolated issue. It’s a reflection of how interconnected the global supply chain is, where changes in one industry—such as the shift from duck farming to pig farming—can have a ripple effect across an entire sport. Manufacturers are now exploring new ways to source feathers sustainably, and some are even looking into alternative materials to create better shuttlecocks.

For now, badminton enthusiasts around the world have to adapt. Some are finding ways to stretch their shuttlecock supplies, while others are embracing synthetic options for training. Despite the challenges, badminton’s popularity continues to grow, and the sport remains one of the most exciting and accessible activities worldwide.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Global Impact

This shortage serves as a reminder of the global impact that seemingly small shifts in industry can have. The badminton community is facing a period of adaptation, but it also provides an opportunity for innovation and creativity within the sport. Whether it’s through new materials or changes in how we approach the sport’s equipment, one thing is certain: badminton will continue to evolve, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

how to choose perfect pickleball paddle in 2025

How to choose the Best Pickleball Product for you in 2025?

The Ultimate Pickleball Equipment Guide: What Serious Players Need to Know Before Their Next Purchase

In the rapidly evolving world of pickleball, equipment choices can make or break your game. Whether you’re a 3.5 player looking to break into the 4.0 ranks (DUPR Rankings) or you’ve just caught the pickleball bug and want to graduate from borrowed gear, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the confusing world of pickleball equipment with confidence. With top brands like Joola Pickleball, HEAD Pickleball, Franklin, Selkirk and much more dominating a large chunk of the market, new brands are emerging as well on a regular basis. 

Understanding Paddle Technology: Beyond the Marketing Hype

The pickleball market has exploded with options, each claiming to be revolutionary. Let’s cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters for your game.

Core Materials: The Heart of Your Paddle

The core of your pickleball paddle determines much of its performance characteristics:

  • Polymer cores offer excellent control and soft touch—ideal for players who prioritize precise dinking and third-shot drops. They typically provide a larger sweet spot and reduce vibration.
  • Nomex cores generate more power and create a distinctive “pop” sound. These cores are stiffer and transfer more energy to the ball, making them suitable for players who need help generating power.
  • Aluminum cores provide a middle ground between polymer and Nomex—offering reasonable power while maintaining decent control.
polymer core vs nomex core in pickleball paddle

polymer core vs nomex core in pickleball paddle

Player insight: “I switched from a Nomex core to polymer when my game evolved from baseline power to more strategic net play. The difference in my soft game was immediate.” – Michael T., 4.0 Player

Face Materials: Finding Your Perfect Surface

The face material affects spin potential, durability, and feel:

  • Carbon fiber faces provide excellent durability and spin potential. They’re typically textured and allow advanced players to generate significant ball rotation on serves and drives.
  • Fiberglass faces offer a softer feel with good power. They’re slightly less textured than carbon fiber but provide excellent all-around performance for most recreational players.
  • Composite faces blend various materials to achieve specific performance characteristics.
carbon fibre vs fiberglass in pickleball paddle

carbon fibre vs fiberglass in pickleball paddle

Pro tip: Most intermediate players benefit from a carbon fiber face with a polymer core—this

combination provides the control needed to develop proper technique while offering enough spin

potential to execute advanced shots.

Paddle Shapes and Weights: Finding Your Perfect Match

Standard vs. Elongated vs. Oversized

Paddle shapes significantly impact your play style:

  • Standard/Traditional (typically 7.5-8″ wide by 15.5-16″ long): Provides balanced power and control with the largest sweet spot. Ideal for all-around players.
  • Elongated (typically 7-7.5″ wide by 16.5-17″ long): Offers extended reach and more leverage for power. Better for hard-hitting baseline players or those who struggle to generate power.
  • Oversized (typically 8-8.5″ wide by 15.5-16″ long): Maximizes sweet spot size at the expense of maneuverability. Great for beginners or players transitioning from tennis.
elongated vs standard shaped pickleball paddle

elongated vs standard shaped pickleball paddle

Weight Considerations: Finding Your Balance

Paddle weight isn’t just about preference—it’s about play style, physical capabilities, and skill development:

  • Lightweight paddles (7.3-7.8 oz): Offer superior maneuverability and reduce strain on the arm. Ideal for players with previous injuries or those prioritizing quick reactions at the kitchen line.
  • Midweight paddles (7.9-8.3 oz): Provide the best balance between power and control for most players. This is the recommended starting point if you’re unsure.
  • Heavyweight paddles (8.4+ oz): Generate more power with less effort but sacrifice some maneuverability. Better for players with tennis backgrounds or those playing primarily doubles with an emphasis on power.

Expert recommendation: “Don’t go too light too early. Many beginners choose ultra-lightweight paddles thinking they’re easier to handle, but slightly heavier paddles provide feedback that helps develop proper technique.” – Coach Wilson, Certified Pickleball Instructor

Grip Size and Handle Length: The Overlooked Performance Factors

Your grip significantly impacts wrist action, control, and comfort:

Finding Your Ideal Grip Size

Most pickleball paddles come in grip circumferences between 4″ and 4.5″:

  • Smaller grips (4-4.25″) allow for more wrist action and spin but may cause strain for players with larger hands.
  • Larger grips (4.25-4.5″) provide stability and reduce strain but limit wrist movement.

Quick measurement method: Hold the paddle with your playing hand. If you can fit your index finger from your non-playing hand comfortably between your fingertips and palm, the grip size is appropriate.

Standard vs. Long Handle Considerations

  • Standard handles (4.5-5″) provide balanced weight distribution and are ideal for most players.
  • Long handles (5-5.5″) accommodate two-handed backhands and benefit players transitioning from tennis.

Critical insight: “I suffered from tennis elbow for months until I realized my grip was too small. Switching to a 4.5″ grip with an overgrip eliminated my pain within weeks.” – Sarah L., Tournament Player

Footwear: The Foundation of Your Game

Pickleball-specific shoes aren’t just a marketing ploy—they’re engineered for the unique movements of the sport:

Court Surface Considerations

  • Indoor courts require shoes with non-marking gum rubber soles that provide excellent grip without leaving scuff marks.
  • Outdoor courts demand more durable outsoles (often made from modified herringbone patterns) that can withstand abrasion from concrete and asphalt.

Critical Shoe Features for Pickleball

The best pickleball shoes offer:

  • Lateral stability to support side-to-side movements
  • Cushioning under the ball of the foot for quick starts and stops
  • Low-to-medium ankle height balancing support with mobility
  • Reinforced toe caps for durability during lunges

Field-tested advice: “I went through three pairs of running shoes in six months playing pickleball four times weekly. Investing in proper court shoes was actually more economical in the long run, plus my knees thanked me.” – Roberto M., 65-year-old player

Performance Apparel: Beyond Fashion

While style matters, function should drive your pickleball apparel choices:

Moisture Management

Look for fabrics labeled with terms like:

  • Moisture-wicking
  • Quick-dry
  • Hydrophobic

These technologies move sweat away from your body and onto the fabric surface, where it can evaporate quickly—keeping you cooler and preventing chafing.

Motion-Optimized Design

Pickleball-specific apparel features:

  • Strategic seam placement to prevent irritation
  • Four-way stretch fabrics for unrestricted movement
  • Slightly shorter sleeves for unrestricted arm movement
  • Deeper pockets specifically designed to secure pickleball balls between points

Player perspective: “The difference between general athletic wear and pickleball-specific apparel becomes obvious after a few hours of tournament play. Details like non-ride-up shorts and strategically placed ventilation make a real difference.” – Alyssa K., Tournament Player

Accessory Essentials: Small Items, Big Impact

Overgrips: Customization and Protection

  • Tacky overgrips provide maximum traction in dry conditions
  • Absorbent overgrips excel in humid environments
  • Perforated overgrips offer the best moisture management during intense play

Replace overgrips regularly—typically every 6-10 playing sessions for active players.

Gloves: The Controversial Performance Enhancer

Pickleball gloves are gaining popularity for:

  • Reducing blisters during marathon play sessions
  • Maintaining grip in extreme weather conditions
  • Supporting proper hand positioning for players with arthritis or similar conditions

Insider tip: “Apply a new overgrip before big tournaments, but not the day of—give yourself at least one practice session to adapt to the feel.” – Tournament Director, Western Regional Championships

Making Smart Equipment Investments

The Evolution Path

Rather than buying new equipment randomly, consider this strategic progression as your skills improve:

  • Beginning Stage: Focus on a mid-weight, standard-shaped paddle with a polymer core and fiberglass face. Invest in proper court shoes immediately.
  • Intermediate Transition: Upgrade to a carbon fiber-faced paddle that matches your emerging play style (power vs. control). Add performance apparel and quality overgrips to your arsenal.
  • Advanced Customization: Fine-tune your equipment with precisely matched grip sizes, weight, balance, and specialized shoes for different court surfaces.

Avoiding Common Purchase Mistakes

  • Buying based solely on price: Both extremely cheap and overly expensive paddles can hinder development.
  • Following pro player endorsements blindly: Your game and physical capabilities likely differ from professional players.
  • Ignoring your playing environment: Indoor and outdoor play may require different equipment characteristics.
  • Overlooking the importance of proper fit: Especially with shoes and grip sizes.

Conclusion: Equipment as a Performance Partner

Your pickleball equipment should evolve with your game. The perfect paddle, shoes, and accessories act as extensions of your body—enhancing strengths and mitigating weaknesses. With this knowledge, you can make confident equipment decisions that will support your pickleball journey for years to come.

Remember: The best equipment isn’t necessarily the most expensive or the latest release—it’s the gear that best compliments your unique playing style, physical attributes, and skill level.

Need personalized equipment recommendations? Our expert staff includes certified pickleball instructors who can help match you with the perfect gear for your game. Contact us through the website or visit our detailed paddle comparison tool to find your ideal match.

HEAD Radical Nite vs HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle_ A Comprehensive Comparison1

HEAD Radical Nite vs HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the fast-paced world of pickleball, choosing the right paddle is essential to elevating your game. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, the pickleball paddle you select can have a significant impact on your performance.

Recently, HEAD, a trusted name in sports equipment, launched the HEAD Boom series for pickleball paddles, continuing its legacy of high-performance gear with a look and feel derived from their highly successful tennis racquet series.

For those who are already familiar with HEAD’s Radical, Extreme, and Gravity series in pickleball, the addition of the HEAD Boom series comes as an exciting new offering, retaining the same sleek cosmetic design and color scheme that has made HEAD racquets so popular among tennis players. The use of similar branding creates a seamless connection between their tennis and pickleball product lines, ensuring consistent brand identity across both sports.

Today, we’re diving into a comparison between two of HEAD’s most talked-about paddles: the HEAD Radical Nite and the HEAD Boom. These pickleball paddles are built differently, with unique features designed to suit various play styles and preferences.

In this article, we will provide you with all the essential details to help you make an informed decision about which pickleball paddle is right for you, the HEAD Radical Nite Pickleball Paddle or the HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle.

Basic Specifications: HEAD Radical Nite vs HEAD Boom

Before we get into the key differences, let’s first take a look at the basic specifications of both paddles. 

1. Size and Shape:

Both the HEAD Radical Nite and HEAD Boom are elongated paddles. The length of both paddles is the same, coming in at 16.5 inches, with a 5.5-inch handle length. This elongated shape offers a larger sweet spot, which is beneficial for generating power and for players who prefer more reach in their shots.

2. Width:

Both paddles have a width of 7.5 inches, providing a balance between control and power. The width is standard for pro paddles and allows players to maintain stability while still being able to deliver strong shots.

3. Core Material:

The HEAD Radical Nite and HEAD Boom pickleball paddles are both constructed with Pure Raw Carbon combined with a Polymer Honeycomb Core. This combination provides an optimal balance of durability, power, and control, enhancing the responsiveness of the paddle and improving shot accuracy.

4. Weight:

Weight plays an important role in the way a pickleball paddle feels during gameplay. The HEAD Radical Nite weighs in at 232g, while the HEAD Boom is slightly heavier at 245g. This weight difference affects how each paddle swings and feels during play, so it’s worth considering how this will impact your game.

Key Differences Between the HEAD Radical Nite and HEAD Boom

Now that we’ve covered the basic specs, let’s delve into the key differences between the two paddles. 

1. Core Thickness:

One of the most significant differences between the HEAD Radical Nite and the HEAD Boom is the thickness of the core.

  • HEAD Boom: The core of the Boom pickleball paddle is 11mm thick, which gives it a faster swing and a lighter feel. The thinner core allows for greater ball speed and powerful shots, making it ideal for players who like to hit aggressive serves and fast drives. The lighter core helps increase the overall swing speed, which is especially beneficial for singles players looking for fast, explosive shots.
  • HEAD Radical Nite: The Nite pickleball paddle features a thicker 15mm core, which gives it a more controlled feel and a slightly heavier weight. The increased thickness helps absorb more impact, providing a soft, forgiving response. This added thickness is perfect for players who rely on control rather than raw power and prefer a more precise, accurate shot. Players who enjoy playing near the kitchen and prefer dinking will benefit from the additional control the thicker core offers.

2. Playability and Performance:

While both pickleball paddles share some similar technologies, their design and construction lead to different play styles and performance characteristics. Let’s break down the differences:

  • HEAD Boom: The HEAD Boom is all about speed and power. Thanks to its thin 11mm core, the paddle allows for a faster swing and better acceleration. Players who favor explosive power, such as those who hit strong drives and serves, will find this paddle incredibly responsive. The Boom is ideal for players who enjoy playing singles and want a paddle that can generate high-speed drives and quick reactions. The quick swing action also makes it easier to create spin, adding an extra layer of variety to your shots.

    The HEAD Boom pickleball paddle feels incredibly responsive when making powerful shots, and the sound it produces upon striking the ball is satisfying—a feature many players enjoy. With its fast swing speed, it can also provide more aggressive gameplay and help you dominate your opponent from the baseline.
  • HEAD Radical Nite: In contrast, the HEAD Radical Nite Pickleball Paddle is designed for control. Its thicker 15mm core provides a more stable feel, making it easier to maintain accuracy on every shot. The added thickness of the core also absorbs more of the ball’s impact, resulting in a softer feel and greater forgiveness. The Radical Nite paddle excels in dinking, especially when playing near the kitchen line. This is the paddle you want if you enjoy precision shots and want to improve your touch and finesse in the game. The stability and control offered by this paddle make it a great choice for doubles play, where you need a more precise, controlled response.

3. Technology Features:

Both pickleball paddles come equipped with some advanced technologies, each contributing to their overall performance.

  • SpinFusion Spray-on Grit: Both paddles feature SpinFusion, a spray-on grit applied to the paddle surface. This technology enhances spin potential, allowing players to add more rotation to their shots, particularly on serves and returns.
  • Injected Foam Walls: Both paddles also feature Injected Foam Walls, which help increase stability and improve the sweet spot of the paddle. This technology contributes to the durability of both paddles, ensuring long-lasting performance, especially during intense play.
  • Handle Stabilizer Technology: Both the Boom and Radical Nite incorporate HEAD’s Handle Stabilizer Technology, which provides a more balanced feel and improves the overall stability of the paddle during play. This technology reduces vibrations, offering a more comfortable grip and a better overall experience on every shot.

Which Pickleball Paddle Should You Choose?

Choosing between the HEAD Radical Nite Pickleball Paddle and the HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle depends largely on your playing style and preferences.

  • Choose the HEAD Radical Nite if you prefer a more controlled game with an emphasis on accuracy, especially if you like dinking and playing near the kitchen. The thicker core offers greater forgiveness and precision, making it ideal for doubles and precision players.
  • Choose the HEAD Boom if you prefer a fast-paced, power-driven game. The thinner core provides quicker swing speeds and more power for players who enjoy drives and explosive serves. The Boom is also a fantastic choice for singles players who want a paddle that can generate speed and power while maintaining a responsive feel.

Pro Tip: Enhance Your HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle 

For those using the HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle, a simple hack can make a significant difference. Add weight strips around the perimeter of the paddle to increase its power and stability. This simple modification can make the paddle feel more solid and allow you to generate even more speed and control on your shots. It’s a game-changing adjustment that many top players swear by!

Price and Where to Buy

When it comes to price, both paddles offer excellent value for the performance they deliver.

  • HEAD Radical Nite Pickleball Paddle: MRP Rs. 24,999, available for Rs. 17,492 at God of Sports.
  • HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle: MRP Rs. 23,999, available for Rs. 16,792 at God of Sports.

For a wide selection of pickleball gear, visit www.thegodofsports.com. They offer a variety of paddles, balls, and shoes from top brands like HEAD, Joola, Franklin, and more. Plus, use the coupon code GOSYT to get an additional discount on your next purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paddle can make all the difference in your game. Whether you opt for the HEAD Radical Nite Pickleball Paddle for its control and precision or the HEAD Boom Pickleball Paddle for its power and speed, both paddles are designed to elevate your performance. With advanced technology, high-quality materials, and unique designs, these paddles cater to different play styles and offer something for every level of player. So, whether you’re hitting drives, serves, or dinking near the kitchen, HEAD’s paddles have you covered.

Visit God of Sports today and take your pickleball game to the next level!

Joola MOD TA-15 Pickleball Paddle Banned

Why Was The Joola MOD TA-15 Pickleball Paddle Banned

Pickleball enthusiasts, brace yourselves! The recent news of the USAPA banning several popular paddles, including the Joola MOD TA-15, has left many in disbelief. If you’re one of the many players who enjoy the competitive edge these pickleball paddles provide, you may be wondering why your beloved paddle is now officially prohibited from official tournaments. What is this so-called “trampoline effect,” and why is it causing so much controversy in the pickleball world? Let’s break it down.

The Trampoline Effect: What Is It?

To understand the reason behind the ban, it’s crucial to first comprehend the “trampoline effect.” What does that mean? In simple terms, it refers to the way certain paddles’ surfaces deform when the ball strikes them, only to spring back to their original shape almost immediately. This rapid rebound can result in the ball leaving the paddle with extra speed and force, much more than what is typical for normal pickleball play.

While it might sound like an advantage, the issue is that it creates an unfair playing field. The trampoline effect reduces the emphasis on skill, control, and finesse that make pickleball such a dynamic sport. Instead, it amplifies power in a way that allows players to dominate through sheer force, making the game feel more like a power struggle than a strategic contest.

Why is the Joola MOD TA-15 Affected?

So, why exactly is the Joola MOD TA-15 under scrutiny? The pickleball paddle’s core structure plays a significant role in the trampoline effect. The Joola MOD TA-15 features a compressed core, which, when cut open, reveals its design. This specific core material likely contributes to the excessive deflection seen in the paddle, causing the ball to rebound with too much power and speed.

In December 2024, the USA Pickleball Association announced the implementation of a new testing standard, the Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution (PBCoR). This test measures the deflection of the paddle during and after impact with the ball, aiming to limit the trampoline effect. The Joola MOD TA-15 Pickleball Paddle, along with several other paddles, exceeded these testing standards, and as a result, it has been banned for sanctioned tournament play starting July 1, 2025.

The Impact on Pickleball Leagues and Players

The decision to regulate the trampoline effect is not just about removing certain paddles from the market; it’s about ensuring the sport’s integrity. Pickleball is a game built on sportsmanship, skill, and community. By introducing the PBCoR test and limiting paddles with excessive trampoline effects, the USAPA aims to preserve the balance between power and finesse in the game.

When paddles like the Joola MOD TA-15 are allowed to enhance ball speed and force too much, it changes the way the game is played. It becomes less about strategy and more about who can hit the hardest. The new standards help keep the focus on technique, control, and precision, which are key to maintaining fair and enjoyable competition.

IPL Team Owners

The Powerhouses Behind IPL: Meet the Owners Who Shape Cricket’s Biggest League

IPL stands as a unique event that merges cricket competition with business interests and entertainment at a larger scale. Without team owners providing them their base of operations be the players could not reach victory. Business leaders and Bollywood stars at the top of their industries determine the direction of their franchise teams. This essay examines the leadership impact of Indian Premier League (IPL) team owners 2025 on their teams through an in-depth analysis.

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