In a thrilling final, U Mumba overcame early setbacks to defeat Goa 8-5, successfully defending their Ultimate Table Tennis title and matching Goa's record of two championships.
New Delhi, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: The seventh season of Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) had its share of ups and downs, particularly for the U Mumba franchise, which faced a challenging start after losing two consecutive matches. The team, which had previously claimed the title in 2025, found itself in a precarious position, especially after the departure of key players like PB Abhinandh and Bernadette Szocs to the Dempo Goa Challengers during the player auction preceding the season. This loss of talent raised questions about U Mumba's ability to defend their title effectively.
However, the narrative took a dramatic turn on Sunday when U Mumba faced off against the formidable Goa team in the final. After a hard-fought semifinal against the Kolkata Thunder Blades, U Mumba entered the final with renewed vigor and determination. The match took place at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, a venue that has hosted numerous sporting events and is known for its vibrant atmosphere. In a thrilling conclusion to the season, U Mumba managed to overcome Goa's historic unbeaten run, securing an 8-5 victory that not only marked their second consecutive title but also leveled the franchise's championship count with Goa, with both teams now holding two titles each.
The final match unfolded with a sense of suspense and excitement as U Mumba initially trailed 4-2 after the first two matches. The opening match featured a clash between breakout star Abhinandh PB and Goa’s Lilian Bardet, where Abhinandh showcased his skills by winning two games to one. This victory was crucial for U Mumba, as it set a hopeful tone for the team. However, the momentum shifted when Bernadette Szocs, competing for Goa, managed to rally back against U Mumba's Anna Hursey, thereby extending Goa's lead. This early setback could have demoralized a less resilient team, but U Mumba's players demonstrated remarkable tenacity.
In a pivotal moment for U Mumba, the mixed doubles pairing of captain Manush Shah and Anna Hursey stepped up to turn the tide in their favor. The duo has proven to be a formidable team throughout the season, and they continued their winning streak by defeating Alvaro Robles and Syndrela Das in straight games. This victory not only boosted U Mumba's confidence but also reinvigorated their chances in the overall match. Following the mixed doubles, Manush Shah continued to lead by example in the men's singles, overcoming a shaky start against Robles. After dropping the first game, he fought back to win the second in a nail-biting finish, edging out Robles 11-10, and then decisively closing out the match with an 11-5 victory in the final game. This victory gave U Mumba a crucial 7-5 lead, setting the stage for the final showdown.
As the final match approached its climax, all eyes were on Anusha Kutumbale, who was tasked with securing the championship against Syndrela Das. The tension was palpable as both players exchanged points, with Syndrela managing to erase a 5-9 deficit to level the score at 10-10. However, Anusha displayed remarkable composure under pressure, ultimately clinching the decisive point at 11-10. This victory not only sealed the championship for U Mumba but also sparked jubilant celebrations among the players and their supporters, marking a significant achievement for the franchise.
The implications of U Mumba's victory extend beyond just the title; it highlights the resilience and adaptability of the team in the face of adversity. Coaches John Murphy and Jay Modak, who were brought back by the franchise to guide the team, played a crucial role in strategizing and motivating the players throughout the season. Their leadership has been instrumental in fostering a competitive spirit and unity within the team, which was evident in their performance during the final.
In addition to the championship victory, the league also recognized individual performers at the conclusion of the season. U Mumba's captain Manush Shah was awarded the Men's Most Valuable Player, while Anna Hursey received the Women's Most Valuable Player award. Their exceptional performances throughout the season were acknowledged, underscoring their contributions to U Mumba's success. Additionally, Omar Assar from PBG Pune Jaguars received the Shot of the League award, while Abhinandh PB was honored as the ChatGPT Player of the League for his breakout performances.
Moreover, the contributions of Manush and Hursey in the final earned them the Indian and Foreign Player of the Tie awards, respectively, showcasing their pivotal roles in the championship match. Manush's accolades continued as he also collected the ChatGPT Player of the Tie and the Bisleri Shot of the Tie, capping off an unforgettable evening for both him and the franchise.
U Mumba's success this season is further underscored by their earlier triumph in the Dream UTT Juniors title, making them the first team to achieve such a double in the league's history. This remarkable feat not only highlights the depth of talent within the U Mumba franchise but also sets a benchmark for future seasons.
As the league continues to grow in popularity and prestige, the impact on Indian table tennis is becoming increasingly evident. The vision articulated by Mrs. Dani, who emphasized the importance of promoting the sport and enhancing the skills of Indian players, resonates strongly within the community. The league has provided a platform for players to showcase their talents, gain international exposure, and ultimately contribute to India's aspirations of winning an Olympic medal in table tennis.
In conclusion, U Mumba's triumph in the seventh season of Ultimate Table Tennis not only reinforces their status as a powerhouse in the league but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring players across the nation. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents, coupled with effective coaching, has proven to be a winning formula. As the league looks forward to future seasons, the anticipation for new rivalries, emerging stars, and the continued growth of table tennis in India remains high.
Final Score
U Mumba TT 8-5 Dempo Goa Challengers
Lilian Bardet lost to Abhinandh PB 1-2 (7-11, 9-11, 11-6)
Anna Hursey lost to Bernadette Szocs 1-2 (11-5, 7-11, 7-11)
Manush Shah/Anna Hursey bt. Alvaro Robles/Syndrela Das 3-0 (11-8, 11-7, 11-9)
Manush Shah bt Alvaro Robles 2-1 (6-11, 11-10, 11-5)
Anusha Kutumbale bt. Syndrela Das 1-0 (11-10)
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