China unveiled its lineup for the upcoming ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in London, featuring top players Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha. The squad comprises 10 players, including Wang Chuqin, Lin Shidong, Zhou Qihao, Xiang Peng, and Liang Jingkun for the men’s team, and Sun Yingsha, Wang Manyu, Chen Xingtong, Kuai Man, and Wang Yidi for the women’s team.
In the men’s category, Wang and Lin earned direct qualification based on past performances or world rankings, while Zhou and Xiang secured spots through team trials. The final slot went to Liang, aged 29, chosen by the coaching group after deliberation and input from players and experts, as reported by Xinhua.
Wang Hao, the men’s team head coach, emphasized Liang’s experience, stability, and past performances in crucial matches at major championships. Despite a setback due to injury post-Asian Championships, Liang’s form has been on the rise following rehabilitation, Wang noted.
Looking ahead to the team world championships, Wang highlighted the fierce competition in the men’s division, acknowledging the rapid progress of players from other teams. He stressed the need for China to approach the tournament with full determination and effort to secure victory.
On the women’s side, Sun and Wang Manyu secured direct qualification, while Chen, Kuai, and Wang Yidi earned their spots through team trials. Women’s team head coach Ma Lin praised these five players as the top talents within the team, representing its highest caliber.
Chief coach Qin Zhijian expressed optimism about the team’s prospects in the upcoming competition, noting that this event marks the first team competition under the new coaching setup. He urged all team members to prepare diligently and perform at their best to achieve a successful outcome.
China has a remarkable track record in the tournament, having clinched 11 consecutive men’s team titles and six successive women’s team titles. The World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in London are scheduled to take place from April 28 to May 10.
