Sharath Kamal on Selection Debate: “Best Players Should Represent India”

India’s table tennis stalwart Achanta Sharath Kamal has chosen to remain neutral on the ongoing controversy surrounding the exclusion of star paddler Manika Batra from the Asian Games squad, stating that national selection should always prioritise the best-performing athletes to maximise medal chances.

Speaking on the issue, Sharath Kamal avoided directly commenting on the disciplinary and selection concerns linked to Manika Batra’s omission. Instead, he emphasised a broader sporting principle—that the strongest and most in-form players should represent the country in major international competitions.

Focus on Merit-Based Selection

Sharath Kamal highlighted that team selection in high-stakes tournaments such as the Asian Games should be guided primarily by performance, consistency, and the ability to deliver results under pressure.

According to him, the ultimate goal for any national team is to win medals for the country, and that objective is best achieved when selection is based strictly on merit rather than external debates or controversies.

Avoiding Controversy, Emphasising Unity

By steering clear of the dispute, Sharath Kamal maintained a diplomatic stance, focusing instead on the importance of unity within Indian table tennis. His comments reflect a preference to keep attention on the sport and team performance rather than internal disagreements.

He reiterated that athletes and officials should work together towards a common goal—strengthening India’s presence on the global stage.

Background of the Selection Issue

The controversy stems from Manika Batra’s exclusion from the Asian Games squad after reportedly not meeting the selection criteria. The decision sparked debate within the table tennis fraternity and among fans, with differing opinions on the fairness and transparency of the process.

While discussions continue, the Table Tennis Federation of India has maintained that selections are made based on established performance standards and eligibility guidelines.

The Bigger Picture

Sharath Kamal’s comments underscore a recurring theme in Indian sports—balancing individual talent, discipline, and team requirements while making selection decisions for international events.

As one of India’s most experienced paddlers, his perspective carries significant weight, especially in shaping the narrative around fairness and competitiveness in team selection.

Ultimately, his message remains clear: the focus should stay on selecting players who give the country the best chance of success on the international stage.