Dimapur, March 9 (MExN): The Nagaland Pickleball Association (NPA) has announced the inaugural Mithun Rhino Pickleball Championship 2026, an interstate tournament between Nagaland and Assam, scheduled to be held on March 14 and 15 at The Fitness House.
According to a press release issued by the NPA, Team Nagaland for the championship was selected through official trials conducted on March 7 at the same venue in Dimapur. Some direct entry spots were also awarded to champions from a previous tournament in recognition of their performance, while the remaining positions were filled through the trials.
The association stated that the championship is part of efforts to strengthen sporting exchanges and collaboration between athletes and sports bodies from different states. It also aims to promote pickleball in Nagaland and the Northeast while creating opportunities for participation and competition.
The matches will begin at 12:00 PM on March 14, while the timing of the finals will be announced later. The event will feature interstate team competitions between Nagaland and Assam across men’s, women’s and veterans categories, along with mixed doubles. The NPA expressed appreciation to The Fitness House for hosting the Team Nagaland trials and providing the venue for the upcoming championship. It also congratulated the athletes who participated in the trials.
Team Nagaland manager for the championship is Nisuka Khulu.
In the men’s interstate team championship, the selected players are Vilasier Khate (captain), Megotsolie Khate, David Murry, Tonoto Ayemi, Imsuren Longchar, Kabinlo Kent, Chuba Imsong and Imtinok Pongener. The reserves are Nzamo Kikon, Zhaputso Khate and Ohito Awomi.
For the women’s interstate team championship, the selected players are Eyeni Yanthan (captain), Lentina Longkumer, Chubasenla Aier, Elona Ayemi, Yangtila Ozukum and Imtila Pongen.
In the veterans interstate team championship, the team comprises Kuchi R Zeliang (captain), Kenei Miachieo, Lhouvi Punyu, Abu Metha, Vikho Khate and Ringo Odyuo, with Rohan Abraham, Chichan Shitiri and Mongden Jamir named as reserves.
The mixed doubles category will feature Chubasenla Aier (captain), Kabinlo Kent, Imtinok Pongener, Megotsolie Khate, Menuovi Kire, Eyeni Yanthan, Imtila Pongen and Lentina Longkumer.
