In a gripping match at the ITTF World Team Championships held in Pune, India’s women’s table tennis team edged out Ukraine 3-2, enhancing their chances of qualifying for the finals. The competition began with Manika Batra (ranked No. 49 globally) facing Tetyana Bilenko, where she initially struggled but ultimately secured victory with scores of 11-9, 7-11, 11-6, and 11-5. Ukraine responded with Margaryta Pesotska defeating Yashaswini Ghorpade in a five-game battle, leveling the tie at 1-1. Diya Chitale then delivered a strong performance against Veronika Matiunina, winning decisively to put India ahead 2-1. However, Margaryta Pesotska fought back to defeat Batra, forcing a final match. Ghorpade rose to the occasion, defeating Tetyana Bilenko 11-7, 11-9, 9-11, 11-7, clinching the tie for India. This victory places India in a favorable position within Group 6 as they prepare to face Rwanda, which could confirm their advancement to the main draw as group leaders.