CHENNAI: There seems to be a new issue plaguing the Indian Table Tennis League (ITTL) ahead of its much-anticipated debut in July. It is learnt that China isn’t sure about releasing players. Given that the nation has 10 each in the top 100 in men’s (including top three) and women’s (top two) world rankings, it’s not the ideal situation facing the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI).
While newly-elected TTFI secretary general MP Singh is convinced that issues will be ironed out before time, even if talks fail, the ITTL will go ahead as planned. Back in March 2016, the TTFI had explained to Express that presence of powerhouses — China, Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Hong Kong — aside from European countries would benefit Indian paddlers.
“In an earlier mail, the Chinese had informed they’d be part of the league, but we haven’t got confirmation. A clear picture should emerge at the Asian Championships in Wuxi in April, where Chinese players and officials will be in attendance,” Singh said on Wednesday.
Plans for holding the ITTL first surfaced during the senior nationals in January 2015. Initially scheduled in May-June 2016, the Rio Olympics made sure it was postponed. When all else failed, it was moved to July 2017.
“We’ll have another opportunity to convince the Chinese at the World Championships in Dusseldorf in May-June, where the ITTF elections will also be held. We’ll implore them to send as many good players as possible,” Singh added.
rohan@newindianexpress.com