The dates for this year’s Junior South Asian Games are yet to be confirmed, but preparations are already in full swing. The Bangladesh Table Tennis Federation (BTTF) has launched an extensive selection and ranking programme to identify promising young talents across the under-17 and under-19 categories.
The trials are being held at the Tajuddin Ahmed Wooden Floor Gymnasium in Paltan, running from early morning until late afternoon. A total of 32 young players—both boys and girls—are competing in this three-day event. From this pool, the top 16 athletes will be chosen across four categories: under-17 boys, under-17 girls, under-19 boys, and under-19 girls. These selected players will then participate in a long-term training camp in preparation for the Junior South Asian Games.
The training camp will take place at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), the country’s premier sports education institution. Sujon Mahmud, a member of the BTTF, emphasised the federation’s ambitious goals:
“Our plan is extensive. This year, the Junior South Asian Games are scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka, although the exact dates are yet to be announced. We are not waiting idly. Our expectations and aspirations for South Asia are high. Moreover, these trials allow us to identify fresh talent, strengthening the pipeline for the national team in the coming years.”
Among the participants is 18-year-old Khoy Khoy Sai Marma, who recently won the national women’s singles and girls’ singles titles. Earlier, she paired with Jabed Ahmed to win a silver medal in the mixed doubles event at the Islamic Solidarity Games held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Her presence highlights the high level of competition and the potential of Bangladesh’s emerging table tennis stars.
Selection Overview
| Category | Number of Participants | Selection Target | Notable Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under-17 Boys | 8 | 4 | — |
| Under-17 Girls | 8 | 4 | Khoy Khoy Sai Marma |
| Under-19 Boys | 8 | 4 | — |
| Under-19 Girls | 8 | 4 | — |
The selection process is rigorous, with each match carefully observed by experienced coaches to ensure that only the most promising talents advance. The federation hopes that this structured approach will not only prepare athletes for international competition but also nurture a generation capable of sustaining Bangladesh’s presence in table tennis across South Asia.
With the Junior South Asian Games on the horizon, all eyes are on these young athletes, particularly on Titi, whose leadership and vision aim to set a new benchmark for Bangladesh in regional table tennis competitions.