U Mumba TT Aims for Semi-Final Spot Against Dabang Delhi in UTT Clash
U Mumba TT vs Dabang Delhi TTC: A Crucial Encounter
Ahmedabad, June 11: U Mumba TT is gearing up for a critical match against Dabang Delhi TTC in the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) on Thursday, with hopes of securing a place in the semi-finals. For Dabang Delhi, the stakes are equally high as they aim to become the first team to finish the league stage without a loss.
Currently positioned fifth in the standings with 32 points, U Mumba's playoff aspirations hinge not only on their performance but also on the results of the match between Jaipur Patriots and PBG Pune Jaguars. While five victories could suffice, the Mumbai team must put up a strong fight.
U Mumba enters this match with confidence after a hard-fought victory against Stanley’s Chennai Lions. Key players Bernadette Szocs, Lilian Bardet, and Yashaswini Ghorpade are in excellent form, with Szocs and Bardet each winning three out of four matches, while Yashaswini has secured two wins in three outings, including a notable victory over China’s Fan Siqi.
The mixed doubles duo of Szocs and Akash Pal has been impressive, winning three consecutive matches. Although Akash has yet to claim a singles victory, his contributions in doubles have been significant. Bardet and Szocs are recognized as top forehand shot-makers in the league, while Yashaswini excels with her backhand.
On the other hand, Dabang Delhi has already secured their playoff position, but a win in this match would solidify their legacy in IndianOil UTT history. Their performance has been consistently strong, with Diya Chitale, Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, Maria Xiao, and Izaac Quek each winning at least two matches.
The mixed doubles team of Sathiyan and Maria remains unbeaten with a perfect record of four wins, providing a crucial advantage in high-pressure situations. With both Izaac and Sathiyan ranking among the top five for backhand winners, Dabang Delhi is poised to deliver a powerful performance as they aim to finish the league stage on a high note and carry that momentum into the semi-finals.