TTFI Explains Manika Batra's Asian Games 2026 Snub, Says Selection Followed Existing Criteria

Manika Batra's exclusion from India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games was based entirely on the selection policy in place, with the committee strictly adhering to the prescribed criteria, the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) said in its response to the star paddler.

The multiple-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Asian Games medallist had sought an explanation from the federation after being left out of the squad for the Games in Japan.

In its reply, TTFI reiterated that the selection committee followed the approved selection formula, which allocates 50 per cent weightage to national rankings, 40 per cent to international rankings and the remaining 10 per cent to the selectors' discretion.

Although Manika is currently ranked 51st in the latest ITTF rankings, she did not feature in the national rankings as she skipped domestic competitions. She also narrowly missed out on an automatic berth, which was reserved for players inside the world's top 50 when the squad was finalised on June 9.

A TTFI source clarified that her omission was not influenced by any single criterion, as reported by PTI.

"The decision was based on the cumulative assessment undertaken by the selection committee in accordance with the Selection Policy, including National performance evaluation, Global performance evaluation, Comparative assessment of competing players, Team composition considerations, Medal prospects and strategic suitability and the views expressed and votes cast by the Selection Committee members," the source said.

"Upon completion of this exercise, the Committee determined that the selected five-member team was the most suitable for the Asian Games 2026," added the source.

Manika has been named as the second reserve, while Swastika Ghosh is the first reserve. According to the source, the final place in the women's squad was decided through a vote, with Suthirtha Mukherjee securing the majority support.

"There was unanimity regarding the first four women players selected. For the fifth and final team composition, voting was conducted among the competing candidates. Sutirtha Mukherjee secured eight votes, while no votes were cast in favour of Swastika Ghosh for that position.

"For the first reserve position, Ms Swastika Ghosh secured six votes, while Manika secured two. For the second reserve position, she secured eight votes and were accordingly selected as the second reserve.

"The final outcome, therefore, reflected the collective decision of the duly constituted Selection Committee following discussion and voting.

"Her candidature was duly considered. The decision was taken bona fide, in accordance with the governing policy and within the timelines set by the IOA," added the source in reference to Manika.