The Indian table tennis team is all set to take on the continents best at the 34th ITTF ATTU Asian Cup 2025, which kicks off on February 19 in Shenzhen, China.
With a strong blend of experienced stalwarts and promising new talents, India is poised to create history and perhaps even secure its first-ever medal at the World Championships.
A Proud Legacy and a Promising Future
Representing India in this prestigious tournament are six exceptional players who have already made their mark on the international scene. In the women’s category, Sreeja Akula, Yashaswini Ghorpade, and Ayhika Mukherjee are ready to challenge the world elite.
Their counterparts in the men’s singles include the seasoned Sharath Kamal, alongside rising stars Manav Thakkar and Harmeet Desai.
These players join the legacy of Indian table tennis, carrying forward the momentum created by medalists like Chetan Baboor who clinched silver and bronze in 1997 and 2000 respectively and more recently, Manika Batra’s impressive bronze in 2022.
Tournament Format and Group Stage Draws
The Asian Cup’s group stage runs from February 19 to 23, with the top two players from each group advancing to the knockout rounds.
This format promises high-intensity matches where every point is crucial. The Indian players have been placed in challenging groups that will test their skills and resolve against some of the best talents from around the world.
For the men’s singles, Sharath Kamal has been drawn into Group 3. His group features China’s formidable Liang Jingkun, who holds a world ranking of No. 3, Japan’s Matsushima (ranked No. 31), and Egypt’s Ebrahim.
This group represents a tough battleground where Sharath’s experience will be key to navigating through his highly competitive opponents.
Manav Thakkar finds himself in Group 7, competing against Taiwan’s LYJ (ranked No. 14), China’s Chen Yuanyu (ranked No. 26), and Singapore’s Quek Izaac (ranked No. 85).
Similarly, Harmeet Desai will face stiff competition in Group 8, where he is grouped with Taiwan’s Kao (ranked No. 21), Kazakhstan’s Kirill (ranked No. 56), and South Korea’s Jaehyun (ranked No. 22).
The women’s singles groups also promise fierce contests. Sreeja Akula has been placed in Group 1 alongside China’s top seed Sun Yingsha, a powerhouse in the sport, Taiwan’s Chien Tung, and a competitor from Qatar.
Yashaswini Ghorpade will battle in Group 5 against Japan’s Hina, Thailand’s Orawan, and Taiwan’s Cheng.
Meanwhile, Ayhika Mukherjee’s Group 8 includes Japan’s Satsuki Odo, China’s Shi Xunyao, and another determined opponent from Suthasini.
Each group sets the stage for high-caliber matches, demanding that the Indian athletes bring their best to the table.
A Busy Year for Table Tennis
The Asian Cup is only the beginning of an exciting year for table tennis. Following this event, fans can look forward to a series of major tournaments in 2025, including the ITTF World Cup in April, the World Table Tennis Championships in May, the ATTU Asian Team Championships in October, and the ITTF Mixed World Cup in December.
These tournaments provide multiple opportunities for players to showcase their talents on the global stage, further elevating the sports profile and inspiring future generations.
Looking Ahead: A Historic Opportunity
With the tournament underway in Shenzhen, all eyes will be on India’s table tennis contingent. The blend of seasoned experience and youthful exuberance in the squad has fueled high expectations among fans and experts alike.
The pressing question remains: Can India secure its first-ever medal at the World Championships? The answer lies in the teams ability to rise to the occasion, maintain composure under pressure, and execute their game plans with precision.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, the stage is set for an unforgettable display of skill and determination. For Indian table tennis, the 34th ITTF-ATTU Asian Cup is more than just a competition it is a chance to make history, inspire millions, and usher in a new era of excellence in the sport.
