Bengaluru Blasters Seek First Victory Against Mumbai Smashers

Bengaluru Blasters aim for their first win of the **Indian Pickleball League (IPBL)** 2025 season as they prepare to face the **Mumbai Smashers** on **December 3, 2025**. The team has struggled in their opening matches, suffering defeats against the **Lucknow Leopards** and **Capital Warriors Gurgaon**, leaving them at the bottom of the league standings.

After a disappointing start, Bengaluru’s players are focused on rectifying their mistakes. Coach **Dhiren Patel** emphasized the team’s commitment, stating, “The plan is obviously to come back stronger. We are targeting a clean sweep.” He highlighted the importance of securing a victory with a four-point lead, expressing confidence in his players’ readiness.

The Blasters’ initial performance has raised concerns, particularly after a **1-5 loss** against the Leopards and a close **2-3 defeat** to the Warriors, where they squandered a 2-0 lead. As they prepare for the match against the Smashers, co-founder **Visakh V. S.** has stepped in to uplift team morale. “We had a heartbreaking loss against Capital Warriors Gurgaon. We were almost in control,” he reflected, underscoring the impact of a last-point net code error that led to their defeat.

Visakh is determined to rally the team, stating, “We want to forget that. Whatever has happened has happened. We trust our team.” He acknowledged the challenges of maintaining motivation after consecutive losses. “Every player wants to win, and disappointments can affect morale. But we are confident that the team will turn it around.”

With a roster featuring the youngest players in the league, including **15-year-old Arjun Singh**, managing pressure remains a priority. Visakh emphasized the need for support, saying, “We are providing motivational words and ensuring they remain inspired.”

Dhiren Patel has also encouraged his players to enjoy the game rather than obsess over results. “We tell them not to worry about the result. Pickleball will continue beyond today’s match,” he noted. He believes that the right mindset is crucial for performance, urging players to believe in themselves as they seek to bounce back.

As the Blasters look ahead to their match against the Smashers, attention is on standout player **Phuc Huynh**. Following a subdued debut, Phuc rebounded with impressive victories, including two men’s doubles wins and a men’s singles triumph against **Jack Munro**, where he dominated with a score of **15-3**. Dhiren explained that Phuc’s initial struggles were due to adjusting to the new environment and format. “The first day was just a transition day. He needed time to adapt,” Dhiren stated.

Phuc is eager to contribute to the team’s success in their upcoming match. “Our goal today is to get our first win. If I can deliver a strong start in men’s singles, it will motivate the team to secure the match,” he said confidently.

As Bengaluru Blasters prepare for this critical encounter, they carry the weight of previous disappointments but remain resolute in their pursuit of victory.