World Table Tennis Championship: Manav Thakkar, Manika Batra to spearhead India's Charge, Syndrela Das Included

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With just over a month remaining for the prestigious ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals 2026, the Indian contingent is buzzing with optimism as both men's and women's teams prepare to compete on the global stage in London from April 28 to May 10.

The event, marking the 100th anniversary of the championships, will feature an expanded format with 64 teams in each category, offering greater opportunities for emerging nations. India secured qualification through strong performances at the 2025 South Asia Regional Championships.

Young Kolkata Girl Syndrela Das selected for India

Syndrela Das, a starlet from Kolkata, has been selected in the Indian Women's squad for the upcoming World Table Tennis Championships. The teenage paddler has been rising in leaps and bounds and is part of the team which boasts the likes of Diya Chitale, Manika Batra among the star names.

Syndrela, ranked 153 in the world, has leapfrogged the likes of Ayhika Mukherjee, Swastika Ghosh to find herself in the squad after a string of decent outings in recent tournaments. Syndrela is currently placed 2nd in the TTFI rankings till March this year, which was pivotal in her selection for the World event.

India Men's Team with Strong Contingent

The men's team also boasts some big names as veteran Harmeet Desai has found his place with the likes of Payas Jain, Manush Shah. Top-ranked Manav Thakkar, Sathyan Gnanasekaran have also found their place in the squad.

Syndrela requires SAI Clearance

The ITTF World Table Tennis will take place in London, and 16-year-old Syndrela will require a clearance from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to fly with the Indian team.

Syndrela is currently in Tunisia, participating in a WTT event. She is set to feature in the Women's Doubles with another Bengali player, Sutirtha Mukherjee.

Manush Shah and Diya Chitale have already advanced to the Quarterfinals of the Mixed Doubles, whereas Manush advanced in the Men's Singles Quarterfinals as well.