Thursday, 30th July 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 24th February 2026, 8:24 AM
The dates for the upcoming Junior South Asian Games have yet to be officially announced, but the anticipation is already building among Bangladesh’s table tennis circles. The Bangladesh Table Tennis Federation (BTTF) has wasted no time, launching an extensive selection and ranking process for promising teenage players across the Under-17 and Under-19 categories.
From dawn to dusk at the Tajuddin Ahmed Wooden Floor Gymnasium in Paltan, 32 young table tennis players — both boys and girls — are competing for a coveted spot in the national junior squad. Over three days, the selection process will identify the top 16 athletes across four categories:
| Category | Players Competing | Final Selection |
|---|---|---|
| Under-17 Boys | 8 | 4 |
| Under-17 Girls | 8 | 4 |
| Under-19 Boys | 8 | 4 |
| Under-19 Girls | 8 | 4 |
These 16 selected players will then enter an intensive, long-term training camp at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), designed to prepare them for the challenges of international competition.
Speaking about the programme, BTTF member Sujon Mahmud said,
“Our plans are ambitious. The Junior South Asian Games are expected to be held in Sri Lanka this year, although the exact dates remain uncertain. Nevertheless, we are moving forward with our preparations. Our expectations for South Asia are high, and we are committed to unearthing new talent to strengthen the national team pipeline for the future.”
Among the contenders is Khoy Khoy Sai Marma, the recently crowned national champion in both the Women’s Singles and Girls’ Singles categories. The 18-year-old star has already made her mark internationally, winning a silver medal in the mixed doubles event with Jabed Ahmed at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The BTTF’s proactive approach reflects a growing emphasis on youth development in Bangladesh table tennis. By giving young athletes rigorous competitive exposure early, the federation aims not only to achieve immediate success at the Junior South Asian Games but also to ensure a steady flow of talent into the senior national team in the coming years.
As the selection rounds progress and the final squad takes shape, the nation’s eyes are firmly fixed on the young paddlers, with hopes that their dedication and preparation will translate into medals and regional acclaim.
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