India’s U-19 boys’ table tennis team created history at the 2025 ITTF World Youth Championships in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, clinching a first-ever silver medal at the prestigious global event. Chennai’s PB Abhinandh played a crucial role in the landmark achievement as India finished runners-up to a dominant Japan in the final.
Despite a 0–3 loss to the Japanese trio in the title clash, the young Indians — Ankur Bhattacharjee, PB Abhinandh and Priyanuj Bhattacharya — delivered one of India’s finest team performances at the youth level.
Thrilling Semifinal Breakthrough
India’s defining moment came in a dramatic 3–2 semifinal victory over Chinese Taipei, a powerhouse known for pace and precision.
- Ankur gave India the lead (3–2 over Hsu).
- Abhinandh went down 1–3 to Kuo.
- Priyanuj restored the advantage with a gritty 3–2 win.
- Taipei levelled again as Kuo beat Ankur 3–0.
- With the tie on the line, Abhinandh delivered a flawless 3–0 win over Hsu to seal India’s maiden entry into a World Youth final.
“It’s joy mixed with a bit of heartbreak, but standing on the podium as the Indian flag rose was surreal,” Abhinandh told CE. “We are proud to be the first Indian team to reach the final.”
Final vs Japan: Tough, High-Pressure Contest
Japan’s top talents — Ryuusei Kawasaki, Kazuki Yoshiyama and Tamito Watanabe — proved too sharp on the day, showcasing clinical precision and attacking play.
“We fought for every point, but Japan didn’t give us any openings,” Abhinandh said.
Preparation and Coaching Edge
Abhinandh trained under coach Subin Kumar at Chennai Achievers’ Academy and benefited from high-intensity national camps under Massimo Constantini. European lead-up tournaments helped boost form as he registered wins against top Japanese players in Skopje.
U-15 Girls Add to Medal Tally
India’s U-15 girls’ team — Ankolika Chakraborty, Divyanshi Bhowmick and Ananya Muralidharan — clinched bronze, falling 0–3 to South Africa in the semifinals.