Indian Women's Table Tennis Team Secures Historic Medal at Asian Championships

Indian Women’s Table Tennis Team Secures Historic Medal at Asian Championships

The Indian women’s table tennis team has made history by securing their first-ever medal at the Asian Championships. Their remarkable victory came after a thrilling quarterfinal match against Paris Olympics bronze medallists South Korea.

Ayhika Mukherjee emerged as the star of the show, defying her underdog status to defeat world-class opponents. Ranked 92nd in the world, she stunned World No. 8 Shin Yubin and World No. 16 Jeon Jihee. Her exceptional performance gave India an unexpected 2-0 lead in the tie.

However, South Korea fought back to level the score at 2-2. Ayhika and Manika Batra, India’s highest-ranked player at 26, remained composed under pressure. Ayhika held her nerve against Jihee in the deciding contest, sealing the win for India.

Ayhika’s triumph is a testament to her determination and skill. Earlier this year, she defeated world number one Sun Yinghsa from China at the World Team Championships. Her inclusion in the team after Archana Kamath’s retirement proved to be a masterstroke.

Manika Batra also played a crucial role, contributing a vital win over Jeon Jihee. Sreeja Akula, despite losing her match, played a part in India’s success by keeping the Koreans at bay in the early stages.

The Indian men’s team will now face their quarterfinal challenge on Wednesday. The women’s team’s historic achievement has set a new benchmark for Indian table tennis and will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players.

Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra to Lead India at Asian Table Tennis Championships

Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra to Lead India at Asian Table Tennis Championships

Indian Table Tennis Squad Announced for Asian Championships

Veteran Sharath Kamal and star player Manika Batra will lead the Indian contingent at the upcoming 27th Asian Table Tennis Championships, scheduled to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan from October 7 to 13.

The Indian Table Tennis Federation (TTFI) has named a strong squad for the tournament, which will serve as a crucial qualification event for the World Table Tennis Championships and the Asian Games.

The men’s team, captained by Sharath Kamal, includes Manav Thakkar, Harmeet Desai, G. Sathiyan, and Manush Shah. The women’s team, led by Manika Batra, comprises Sreeja Akula, Ayhika Mukherjee, Diya Chital, and Sutirtha Mukherjee.

The selection process was based on world ranking, international experience, and performance at the national level. The Indian team has been training under the guidance of foreign expert Massimo Constantini, who has been working to enhance their skills and strategies.

“I am hopeful they will put their best foot forward in the Astana championships,” said Constantini.

The Indian team had a successful outing at the Paris Olympics, with the women’s team reaching the quarterfinals and the men’s team losing to China in the round of 16. It was the first time that India qualified for team events at the Olympics.

The Asian Championships hold significant importance for the Indian team as it provides an opportunity to qualify for major international tournaments. The team will be aiming to perform well and secure a berth in the World Table Tennis Championships and the Asian Games.

Diya Chitale Stuns Manika Batra, Dabang Delhi TTC Upsets PBG Bengaluru Smashers

Diya Chitale Stuns Manika Batra, Dabang Delhi TTC Upsets PBG Bengaluru Smashers

In a thrilling UTT 2024 encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, rising star Diya Chitale stunned World No. 26 Manika Batra, leading Dabang Delhi TTC to a remarkable 8-7 victory over table toppers PBG Bengaluru Smashers.

Despite trailing 7-1, Dabang Delhi TTC staged a stunning comeback, winning seven consecutive games. Chitale’s 3-0 (11-6, 11-10, 11-8) triumph over Batra proved pivotal.

Earlier, PBG Bengaluru Smashers had dominated, with Alvaro Robles and Lily Zhang securing victories in the first men’s and women’s singles, respectively. However, Orawan Paranang and G Sathiyan sparked the Delhi-based franchise’s resurgence with a 2-1 (11-8, 8-11, 11-8) mixed doubles win over Manika and Robles.

Sathiyan then blanked Jeet Chandra 3-0 (11-10, 11-6, 11-5), setting the stage for Chitale’s heroics. The youngster’s impressive performance against Batra showcased her immense potential.

In another exciting clash, Puneri Paltan Table Tennis defeated debutants Jaipur Patriots 9-6. Ankur Bhattacharjee, Suthasini Sawettabut, Natalia Bajor, Anirban Ghosh, Joao Monteiro, and Bajor contributed to the victory.

PBG Bengaluru Smashers remain atop the standings with 48 points, while Dabang Delhi TTC sits second with 41 points. Puneri Paltan Table Tennis is fourth with 28 points, and Jaipur Patriots is fifth with 25 points.

Alvaro Robles to Lead PBG Bengaluru Smashers in IndianOil Ultimate Table Tennis 2024

Alvaro Robles to Lead PBG Bengaluru Smashers in IndianOil Ultimate Table Tennis 2024

Star Spanish paddler Alvaro Robles will lead PBG Bengaluru Smashers in the IndianOil Ultimate Table Tennis 2024 as team captain. Robles, 33, will spearhead a talented sextet, which includes Indian ace Manika Batra, USA sensation Lily Zhang, youngsters Jeet Chandra and Taneesha Kotecha, and the highly experienced Amalraj Anthony.

Robles, a two-time Olympian, has qualified for the playoffs in all three of his previous UTT appearances. He starred in last season’s UTT final, sweeping Indian great Achanta Sharath Kamal 3-0.

Punit Balan, CEO of Punit Balan Group, owners of PBG Bengaluru Smashers, said: “We are delighted to have Alvaro Robles as the captain of the PBG Bengaluru Smashers. Alvaro’s track record speaks for itself-he’s a proven champion with the heart of a leader.”

Robles’ remarkable achievements include a historic silver medal at the 2019 World Table Tennis Championships in Budapest, Hungary, making him the first Spaniard to reach such heights in the sport. He also won a Mediterranean Games gold in 2020 and became the first Spanish player to reach the final in an ITTF Challenger Series event the same year.

“Being named captain of the PBG Bengaluru Smashers is a tremendous honor,” said Robles. “Leading such a talented group of players in a prestigious tournament like IndianOil Ultimate Table Tennis is a challenge I am eager to embrace.”

For the third time in UTT, Robles will work under Dutch coach Elena Timina, who herself coached her team to become UTT champion last year. Timina said: “I’m thrilled to be coaching Alvaro Robles again, especially in such an important role as team captain. Alvaro is not only a world-class player but also a strategic thinker who knows how to bring out the best in his teammates.”

PBG Bengaluru Smashers will begin their IndianOil UTT 2024 campaign on Friday (August 23) with a tie against hosts Chennai Lions. The team will subsequently play Puneri Paltan TT, debutants Jaipur Patriots and Ahmedabad SG Pipers, and Dabang Delhi TTC in their remaining league stage ties.

Manika Batra's Olympic Journey Ends in Pre-Quarterfinals

Manika Batra’s Olympic Journey Ends in Pre-Quarterfinals

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra’s remarkable journey at the Paris Olympics ended in the women’s singles pre-quarterfinals on Wednesday, as she succumbed to a 1-4 defeat against higher-ranked Japanese Miu Hirano.

Batra, who had scripted history by becoming the first Indian table tennis player to reach the round of 16 at the Olympics, faced a formidable opponent in Hirano. Despite a valiant effort, Batra’s uncharacteristic errors proved costly, resulting in a 6-11 9-11 11-9 14-12 8-11 6-11 loss in a match that lasted 47 minutes.

The 29-year-old Batra had entered the match with high hopes, having previously defeated France’s world number 18 Prithika Pavade 4-0 in the round of 16. However, Hirano’s superior experience and skill proved too much for Batra, who suffered her fifth consecutive loss to the Japanese player.

Earlier in the day, Batra’s compatriot Sreeja Akula had advanced to the quarterfinals of the women’s singles competition, providing a glimmer of hope for India in table tennis. Batra, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, had previously reached the round of 32 at the Tokyo Games three years ago.

Despite the disappointing result, Batra’s performance at the Paris Olympics has been a testament to her determination and resilience. She has once again showcased her exceptional talent and has inspired countless young Indians to pursue their dreams in table tennis.

Manika Batra Creates History, Reaches Olympic Table Tennis Pre-Quarterfinals

Manika Batra Creates History, Reaches Olympic Table Tennis Pre-Quarterfinals

Manika Batra, India’s table tennis star, has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian to reach the singles pre-quarterfinals at the Olympic Games. Her remarkable 4-0 victory over world number 18 and home favorite Prithika Pavade on Monday marked a significant milestone for Indian table tennis.

The 29-year-old Batra dominated the match from the outset, showcasing her exceptional skills and determination. She secured a 11-9 11-6 11-9 11-7 victory over Pavade, who has Indian roots. This triumph stands as one of the most memorable moments for an Indian table tennis player in Olympic history.

Batra’s strategy of attacking Pavade’s backhand proved highly effective, although it was not her initial plan. “I had planned to play to her forehand as discussed with my coach, but I was getting the points on her backhand, so I did not change the tactics,” she explained.

Batra’s composure and focus were evident throughout the match. “Staying relaxed helps me both on and off the court. I do breathing exercises that help me during the match,” she said.

Pavade, whose parents are originally from Puducherry, has made significant progress since her first-round exit at the Tokyo Olympics. However, she was unable to overcome Batra’s commanding performance.

The first game was a close affair, with both players neck and neck. Batra’s ability to induce errors from Pavade proved crucial, as she secured the game with a powerful forehand drive.

Batra continued her momentum in the second game, taking an early lead. Pavade fought back, but Batra’s relentless attacks on her backhand earned her the second game.

The third game saw Batra establish a 3-0 cushion, as Pavade struggled to return her shots. Despite Pavade’s desperate efforts, Batra maintained her dominance, taking the game with a 11-9 score.

In the fourth game, Batra’s ferocious forehand gave her a commanding lead. She converted the third match point when Pavade netted her backhand, securing the victory in 37 minutes.

Batra’s historic achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering spirit. She has not only made India proud but has also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Indian Table Tennis Veterans Exit Olympics, Manika Batra Advances

Indian Table Tennis Veterans Exit Olympics, Manika Batra Advances

Indian table tennis veteran Achanta Sharath Kamal’s Olympic journey came to an abrupt end in the men’s singles competition, while star woman player Manika Batra made a strong start to her campaign in Paris.

Kamal, 42, suffered a disappointing 2-4 (12-10 9-11 6-11 7-11 11-8 10-12) defeat to Deni Kozul of Slovenia in the round of 64. Despite winning the first game, Kamal struggled to maintain his momentum, losing the next three games. He rallied to win the fifth game but ultimately fell short in the sixth, bowing out of the competition.

In contrast, Manika Batra, 29, dominated Anna Hursey of Great Britain in her round of 64 women’s singles match, winning 4-1 (11-8 12-10 11-9 9-11 11-5). The 2018 Commonwealth Games champion, seeded 18th in the tournament, controlled the match from the outset, taking a 3-0 lead. Hursey managed to win the fourth game, but Batra quickly regained her composure and sealed the victory in the fifth game.

Earlier, India’s top-ranked woman paddler Sreeja Akula also advanced to the round of 32 with a clinical 4-0 (11-4, 11-9, 11-7, 11-8) win over Sweden’s Christina Kallberg. Akula, who made history by becoming the first Indian paddler to win a WTT Contender singles title, displayed her dominance throughout the match.

Manika Batra will face 12th seed Prithika Pavade of France in the round of 32 on July 31, while Sreeja Akula will take on 19th seed Sofia Polcanova of Austria on the same day.

Indian Table Tennis Team Set for Historic Paris Olympics Qualification

Indian Table Tennis Team Set for Historic Paris Olympics Qualification

Commonwealth Games champion Sharath Kamal and Manika Batra will lead India’s six-member table tennis team at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Kamal, 41, will make his fifth and final Olympic appearance, joined by Manav Thakkar and Harmeet Desai in the men’s team. Batra, in her third Olympics, will team up with Sreeja Akula and Archana Kamath in the women’s team.

India’s qualification in both men’s and women’s team table tennis events marks a historic milestone, as it is the first time the country has qualified in these categories since their introduction in 2008.

Sports entrepreneur Vita Dani, chairperson of Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT), expressed optimism about India’s chances at the Olympics. She highlighted the improved performances of women paddlers, with Batra and Akula securing crucial wins in the lead-up to the Games. Dani also credited UTT for its role in India’s progress in table tennis.

Dani emphasized the importance of the Olympics for Indian paddlers, stating that a strong performance would be a testament to their years of hard work. She also discussed the upcoming UTT season, which will run from August 22 to September 7.

Dani believes that UTT has created a platform for Indian paddlers, giving them exposure and boosting their self-belief. She pointed to the success of Batra and Akula as evidence of the league’s impact on women’s table tennis in India.

Dani also noted the significance of team play in table tennis, despite its traditional focus on individual competition. She expressed excitement about India’s qualification in all categories at the Olympics, setting a new benchmark for the sport in the country.

Indian Table Tennis Stars Set for Tokyo Olympics Challenge

Indian Table Tennis Stars Set for Tokyo Olympics Challenge

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, will face Anna Hursey of Great Britain in the women’s singles opening round at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Veteran Achanta Sharath Kamal, a six-time Olympian, will take on Deni Kozul of Slovenia in the men’s singles.

Manika, seeded 18th, made history at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the round of 32 in singles. She recently achieved a career-best world ranking of No. 24.

In other opening round matches, Harmeet Desai will face Abo Yaman of Jordan in men’s singles, while Sreeja Akula, seeded 16th, will play Christina Kallberg of Sweden.

Sharath Kamal, 41, is leading a six-member Indian contingent, making his fifth Olympic appearance. Manika will participate in her third consecutive Games.

Gnanasekaran Sathiyan, a member of India’s gold medal-winning men’s teams at the 2018 and 2022 Commonwealth Games, has been selected as a reserve player.

In the women’s team event, 11th-seeded India will face fourth-seeded Romania in their opening match. The team includes Manika, Sreeja, and Archana Kamath.

The Indian men’s team, comprising Sharath Kamal, Manav Thakkar, and Harmeet, will face a tough challenge against top-ranked China in their opening round.

The Paris Games will mark the first time that India will compete in the team event at the Olympics. The men’s and women’s team events in table tennis were introduced at the 2008 Beijing Games.

Manika Batra Stuns World No. 2 Wang Manyu, Shatters Chinese Dominance

Manika Batra Stuns World No. 2 Wang Manyu, Shatters Chinese Dominance

Manika Batra’s stunning victory over world No. 2 Wang Manyu at the Saudi Smash tournament has sent shockwaves through the table tennis world. The Indian paddler’s triumph marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Indian table tennis, challenging the long-held dominance of Chinese players.

Before Manika’s breakthrough, Indian players often faced a psychological barrier when competing against Chinese opponents. However, Manika’s fearless approach and unwavering determination have shattered this perception. Her victory over Wang, who is considered a potential Olympic medalist, is a testament to the growing strength and confidence of Indian table tennis players.

Manika’s success is not a mere fluke. She has dedicated herself to rigorous training and mental conditioning. Her German sparring partner, Kirill Barabanov, played a crucial role in her preparation, providing tactical advice and emotional support.

Manika’s journey to the top has not been without its challenges. She has faced legal battles with the federation and endured a string of disappointing results. However, these setbacks have only fueled her determination. She has learned to manage pressure effectively and has developed a strong support system, including her coach Aman Baglu.

Manika’s victory is not just a personal triumph but also a symbol of the progress made by Indian table tennis. It has inspired a new generation of players to believe in their abilities and challenge the established order. As Manika prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, she is confident that she can continue to make history and bring glory to India.

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