by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

A semi-finalist in both Serbia and on home soil in India, Manush Utpalbai Shah gave India the perfect start by beating Francisco Sanchi (11-5, 11-9, 11-5), likewise a player who has enjoyed success on this year’s ITTF World Junior Circuit; he was the runner up in Spain, Paraguay and in his native Argentina.

“I felt confident before the match started, I have come here having just played in Spain; I lost to Tomas Polansky, the runner up, in the round before the quarter-finals. Francisco has a powerful forehand but he was inconsistent with his service, often too long, I was able to topspin the return of service.” Manush Utpalbhai Shah

Success for Manush Utpalbhai Shah was followed by success for Manav Vikash Thakkar, the player who won this year on the ITTF World Junior Circuit in both Serbia and India; furthermore, he has finished the year in top spot on the Standings. He beat Martin Bentancor (11-8, 8-11, 11-3, 11-7).

“It was an important match; we needed to win in order to finish in first place in the group and advance to the next stage. At times I found control difficult, Martin was strong from the backhand; I focused on playing consistently.” Manav Vikash Thakkar

India two matches to nil ahead. Snejit Suravajjula sealed the victory, the winner on this year’s ITTF World Junior Circuit in Jordan, he accounted for Santiago Tolosa (11-2, 11-5, 11-4).

“I was confident, we were two-nil ahead, Santiago made mistakes, I was focused. He had problems returning my service; I was able to attack his service.” Snejit Suravajjula

India completed the group in first place with Argentina in second spot, both outfits having beaten the New Zealand combination of Dean Shu, Alfred Dela Pena and Victor Ma by three matches to nil earlier in the day.