India’s premier table tennis league, Ultimate Table Tennis, has significantly expanded for its 2024 season. The league has now grown to an eight-team competition with 48 players that spans nearly three weeks. Promoted by Niraj Bajaj and Vita Dani under the Table Tennis Federation of India, the league has garnered participation from top-tier athletes and coaches both domestically and internationally. The UTT 2024 player draft unfolded at the President Hotel in Mumbai today, featuring a delightful afternoon graced by Sharath Kamal, SathiyanGnanasekaran, and Manav Thakkar.
The teams competing in the tournament are Ahmedabad SG Pipers, Chennai Lions, Dabang Delhi, Goa Challengers, Jaipur Patriots, Bengaluru Smashers, Puneri Paltan, and U Mumba TT. All these franchises were highly engaged in the player draft, aiming to solidify their squads as much as possible. With the addition of two new franchises, the league opened doors to new possibilities and showcasing even more talent at the highest level. Many teenagers have been drafted into the teams, providing them with an excellent platform to advance their careers. For those who have been around for a while, as well as the international stars, it is an opportunity to continue making an impact and give back to the table tennis community.
RevSportz managed to catch up with both Kamal andThakkar before they headed off for the Paris Olympics, and it is safe to say that they were ready and raring to go. Kamal, who will be appearing in his fifth Olympic Games, is a champion in every sense and has trained hard for the event. “I have given myself five months to prepare completely for the Paris Olympics, doing all the necessary preparations,” he said. “We are now in the last leg, going to Europe before the games, practicing in the same conditions, and looking forward to making the best use of it.”
Manav, brimming with excitement, spoke with anticipation.“This will be my first Olympics, and I aim to make a significant mark,” he said. “The team is well-prepared, and we’re eager to go out there and give our best.”
With the Olympics just around the corner, the nation will be rallying behind them, hoping they do wonders.
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