Indian table tennis star Sharath Kamal that a world-class table tennis tournament — like the WTT Star Contender to be held in Chennai from March 25 to 30 — would definitely help Indian paddlers grow in more ways than one. He was speaking at a press conference here on Wednesday along with Deepak Malik, co-founder and COO of Stupa Analytics, which is organising the tournament.
The 10-time National champion and the country’s top-ranked player in the world at 42, said the tournament is a great platform for Indians to showcase their talent to the world.
“The field is strong in the Star Contender with Tomokazu Harimoto and Hugo Calderano, World No. 4 and 5 respectively, participating,” he said. “Yes, many top European players are not here. And the Chinese are not here due to visa issues.
“I think this will also give the Indians a good chance to go deeper into the draw. Manika Batra, myself, Sreeja Akula or in the men’s doubles, we have the top seeds in Manav Thakkar and Manush Shah. So, winning a tournament, an international one in India, is one of the best things that can happen.”
Malik said the Star Contender is a great opportunity for young paddlers to perform. “I see a very bright and good progress since the first edition of WTT Star Contender was held in India (Goa in 2023). We have seen young Indian players in the last two editions grow and this time it’s got better with more Indians competing.”
Published – March 05, 2025 07:46 pm IST
