Bhubaneswar, October 12, 2025 — The Indian table tennis contingent is brimming with confidence as the 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Team Table Tennis Championships get underway at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. With top Asian nations in the mix, India’s goal is ambitious but clear — a podium finish on home soil.
🔹 Tournament Overview
The continental event, held from October 11 to 15, features the best men’s and women’s teams from across Asia. Beyond continental glory, the championship also serves as a key qualifier for the 2026 World Team Championships in London.
This year marks a significant milestone as the premier event returns to India after 16 years — making it both a symbolic and competitive opportunity for the hosts.
🔹 India’s Preparation & Team Outlook
Head coach Massimo Costantini is optimistic about the team’s readiness after an intense training camp in China, where both squads honed their match strategy and consistency.
“The players are well-prepared and confident. Now, it’s about executing under pressure,” said Costantini.
India’s men’s team — led by Harmeet Desai, Manav Thakkar, and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran — is expected to make a strong impact. Their recent consistency and experience in top-tier events have raised genuine hopes of a medal run.
The women’s team, however, faces an early setback with Sreeja Akula ruled out due to a hand injury. Manika Batra and her teammates will shoulder the responsibility of keeping India’s challenge alive.
🔹 Opening Day Highlights
The first day saw no major upsets, but early ties set the tone for a fiercely contested championship.
Kazakhstan eased past Kyrgyzstan in the men’s section.
Macau edged Uzbekistan 3–2 in a gripping women’s encounter.
India begins its campaign from the main draw — a testament to its growing stature in Asian table tennis.
🔹 The Road to the Podium
To secure a medal, India must:
- Win crucial group and quarterfinal ties to reach the semifinals.
- Pull off at least one upset against a higher-ranked team like Japan, Korea, or Chinese Taipei.
- Stay consistent across all matches — not just rely on top players.
- Adapt swiftly to pressure situations and manage fatigue in back-to-back encounters.
The men’s team, in particular, stands a realistic chance of clinching bronze — and potentially silver with the right momentum.
🔹 Expert View
While China remains the clear favorite in both categories, the battle for the third spot is wide open. India’s men have the depth and tactical maturity to challenge for that position, while the women’s squad will depend on teamwork and composure to compensate for Akula’s absence.
🔹 Outlook
India’s podium dream is within reach — especially for the men’s side. The team’s preparation, home advantage, and growing global confidence have all aligned for a potential breakthrough.
For the women, it’s a test of resilience and teamwork — but history has shown that Indian paddlers often rise to the occasion when expectations are high.
If India can hold its nerve and capitalize on key moments, a historic medal finish could well be on the cards in Bhubaneswar.
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