The Sports Ministry’s suspension of the Table Tennis Federation of India’s (TTFI) recognition has left Indian paddlers facing a host of immediate questions, even as the administration of the sport prepares to move to an ad-hoc arrangement.

What happens to Asian Games participation? India’s participation in the Asian Games is unlikely to be affected. However, the uncertainty surrounding the administration could have a bearing on the team’s preparations. An ad-hoc body is expected to be constituted to administer table tennis ahead of the continental extravaganza, but players are unsure whether the exposure trips and preparatory camp planned for the Asian Games will go ahead as scheduled.

Will Massimo Costantini be available for the Asian Games? Constantini’s tenure as India’s Foreign Expert ended on May 15. Although the veteran Italian was verbally assured of an extension in a new role as High Performance Director, his appointment has not been formalised.

Costantini had been asked to join the Indian contingent for the ongoing Europe Smash in Sweden and was scheduled to arrive in India on August 16. The Hindu, however, understands that his travel plans have now been put on hold and he is expected to return to Italy on August 15.

Whether Costantini will eventually be part of India’s Asian Games campaign remains unclear.

What happens to the National ranking table tennis Tournament? The first zonal National ranking table tennis tournament is scheduled in Kanpur from August 16 to 23, with the opening four days earmarked for junior age-group competitions. The development has understandably triggered concern among young players and their parents about whether the tournament will go ahead.

TTFI sources, however, confirmed that the Kanpur tournament will be held as scheduled, providing some immediate clarity amid the wider uncertainty surrounding Indian table tennis.