The capital city of Odisha is abuzz with anticipation as it prepares to host the 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Table Tennis Championships from October 11 to 15 at the Kalinga Stadium Indoor Athletics Centre.
With teams arriving from across the continent, Bhubaneswar is fast transforming into the epicentre of Asian table tennis, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle featuring some of the world’s finest paddlers. Leading the charge for the hosts is a 17-member Indian contingent, the first team to check in on Tuesday evening.
World No. 48 Manav Thakkar spearheads the men’s squad, while World No. 46 Manika Batra, India’s top-ranked women’s player, anchors the women’s lineup. Both are eager to capitalise on home advantage and deliver performances that can push India closer to the continental elite.
For Thakkar, the tournament represents an opportunity to test himself against Asia’s strongest players in a familiar environment. For Batra, who continues to break new ground for Indian women’s table tennis, the focus will be on consistency and confidence.
Asian Heavyweights Touch Down
Among the early arrivals were the 27-member Japanese squad, led by the electrifying Tomokazu Harimoto, the world No. 4 in men’s singles and one of the sport’s most explosive young stars. They were soon joined by the formidable South Korean and Hong Kong teams, both perennial podium contenders, along with a technically sharp unit from Iran. The biggest arrival, however, is expected tomorrow morning the Chinese national team, which remains the undisputed powerhouse of world table tennis. Led by Wang Chuqin (World No. 1) and Lin Shidong (World No. 2) in the men’s draw, and Sun Yingsha (World No. 2) in the women’s category, the Chinese contingent brings unmatched pedigree and expectation.
By tomorrow evening, all 22 national teams will have checked in, just in time for the official draw on October 10, which will determine the tournament’s early match-ups and potential road to the finals.
World-Class Preparations at Kalinga Stadium
Behind the scenes, the organisers are giving finishing touches to a state-of-the-art setup. All championship-grade equipment including competition flooring specially flown in from China has been installed to meet ITTF standards. From Thursday, 13 practice tables will be available as players begin their final tune-up sessions, acclimating to local conditions and fine-tuning their tactics.
Odisha’s hosting of this continental event marks another milestone in the state’s growing sports legacy. Known for its world-class infrastructure and successful track record with international events, Bhubaneswar is ready to deliver another showcase of professionalism and passion.
Sharath Kamal Named Brand Ambassador
Adding prestige to the event, Indian table tennis legend A. Sharath Kamal has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the 28th Asian Championships. His appointment is both symbolic and inspiring a recognition of his immense contribution to Indian sport. A Padma Shri and Khel Ratna awardee, Sharath Kamal is India’s most decorated paddler, boasting 10 national titles, multiple Commonwealth Games gold medals, and an Asian Games podium finish. Beyond his achievements, he is a respected leader in global sport, serving as Co-Chairperson of the ITTF Athletes Commission and Vice-Chairperson of the IOA Athletes Commission.
“I am deeply honoured to be named the Brand Ambassador for the 2025 Asian Table Tennis Championships in Bhubaneswar,” said Sharath Kamal.
“Table tennis has been my lifelong passion, and I am thrilled to promote an event that will bring Asia’s finest talent to India. With Odisha’s world-class infrastructure, I am confident this championship will set new benchmarks and inspire young athletes nationwide.”
The Organising Committee, in collaboration with the Government of Odisha, extended the invitation to Sharath Kamal, acknowledging his stature as the face of Indian table tennis. His involvement is expected to amplify the tournament’s visibility and encourage greater participation in the sport.
“Sharath Kamal embodies excellence, resilience, and dedication values that reflect the spirit of this championship,” the organisers said. “Having him as Brand Ambassador elevates the event and symbolises Odisha’s pride in hosting this landmark tournament.”
Sharath Kamal will arrive in Bhubaneswar on October 9 and take part in the opening ceremony on October 10, officially welcoming Asia’s best to India’s eastern sporting hub.
As the draw approaches and the practice sessions begin, the excitement is palpable. From Wang Chuqin’s pursuit of dominance and Harimoto’s hunt for a breakthrough title, to Sun Yingsha’s consistency and India’s underdog ambitions, the 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Table Tennis Championships promise top-tier competition and compelling storylines. When play begins on October 11, Bhubaneswar will not just host a championship it will become the arena where Asia’s finest battle for supremacy, pride, and a place at the 2026 World Team Championships in London.
By the numbers:
Event: 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Table Tennis Championships
Venue: Kalinga Stadium Indoor Athletics Centre, Bhubaneswar & Dates: October 11–15, 2025
Participating Teams: 22
Significance: Qualification event for 2026 World Team Championships
Bhubaneswar is ready. Asia is arriving. Let the table tennis battles begin.
