WTT Contender Tunisia Indian Paddlers Shine in Group Stage Qualifiers
By IndiaSportsHub Table Tennis Expert
Only Group Winners Progress to the Main Draw – Day Two Holds Crucial Clashes
The Indian table tennis contingent made a strong statement on Day 1 of the WTT Contender Tunisia qualifiers, where the battle to reach the main draw is being decided via a group-stage format — a system that allows no room for error.
With only the group topper advancing, each match holds significant weight, and India’s players have opened their accounts with critical wins.
Sutirtha, Manush Start Strong
Sutirtha Mukherjee, one of the most experienced names in India’s women’s squad, began her group campaign with a commanding 11-6, 11-7, 11-7 win over Tunisia’s Abir.
Playing a local favourite can come with its own set of challenges, but Sutirtha’s calm control and smart shot placement gave her an edge from the first point.
She now faces Hu Yi from China in what is expected to be the deciding tie in the group. Both players are expected to top the standings, and the winner of this clash will likely earn the coveted main draw spot.
Manush Shah also delivered a clean performance against Switzerland’s Loic, winning 11-7, 11-8, 11-6. Manush’s court positioning and sharp first-ball attack made it difficult for the Swiss paddler to settle into any rhythm.
His next challenge is Li from China — a high-stakes match to determine the group’s top spot.
Ankur Bhattacharjee Pulls Off Major Upset
The highlight for India came from Ankur Bhattacharjee, who stunned China’s Sun in four hard-fought games: 7-11, 11-6, 13-11, 11-7. After a tentative start in the opening game, Ankur flipped the script with aggressive service returns and fearless play in extended rallies.
The third game, which he clinched 13-11 after saving multiple game points, proved to be the turning point.
Ankur’s next match is against Lilian from France. A win there will confirm his place in the main draw — a massive milestone for the rising Indian paddler.
Taneesha Shows Grit Despite Loss
Taneesha Kotecha fought valiantly in her opening match against China’s Yang but came up short in a five-game thriller.
The match ended 4-11, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 8-11. While the early games went Yang’s way, Taneesha showed her resilience by leveling the tie. The deciding game saw her just a few points away from pulling off a comeback.
She now faces Giulia from Brazil and Balkis from Tunisia in her remaining group matches. With Yang still to play Giulia, the group remains open — but Taneesha must win both matches and hope for a favourable game difference if it comes to a three-way tie.
Double Duty Awaits Diya and Snehit
Day Two is critical for Diya Chitale and Snehit Suravajjula, each scheduled to play two group matches.
Diya is up against Balkis from Tunisia and Malissa from Algeria. Her quick movement and attacking mindset should give her the upper hand, but she’ll need to be clinical — in this format, dropped games can haunt even in victory.
Snehit, a promising force in the men’s circuit, will take on Taiwo from Nigeria and Taehyun from Malta. Known for his explosive forehand and fast service game, Snehit has a strong chance to top his group if he maintains his composure and plays his natural game.
Match to Watch: Sutirtha vs Hu Yi
The day’s most anticipated clash will be Sutirtha vs Hu Yi, with a main draw spot at stake. Hu Yi’s aggressive style and quick backhand counters will test Sutirtha’s defensive strengths and ability to shift momentum.
The match could come down to who handles pressure better — and who minimizes unforced errors at key moments.
Group Format Brings Pressure and Precision
The group-based qualification system rewards consistency, focus, and strong game management. In many groups, it’s not just about wins — game and point differentials could decide who progresses. Indian paddlers will have to stay sharp across every rally and treat each match as a final.
India’s Push Toward the Main Draw
With positive results on Day 1, several Indian players are now one win away from securing main draw places. But the job’s not done. Every match today is a mini-final — especially for Ankur, Manush, and Sutirtha, all of whom are at the top of their groups.
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