by Wade Townsend 

Team China has found their line-up for the 2018 World Team Cup this February in London, and one big name has failed to make the list.

World no.1 Chen Meng has fallen short after seven athletes faced off for two remaining positions in the team. The internal qualification event was held for the women’s team from the 5th-6th January at the Chinese national Training Centre in Beijing. At the end of the two day tournament, Chen could only manage to finish third in the tight competition. 

Chen Xingtong was able to finish top of the leaderboard, losing just one encounter. Both Wang Manyu and Chen Meng had two losses to their name, but with Wang taking down Chen 3-0 in their head to head encounter, it was the younger Wang that took a ticket to London.

Competition for places in China’s women’s team is fierce, and coach Li Sun knows that the players are will be battling throughout the year to reserve their spots.

“The competition for 2018 is just beginning. In the new competition environment, all the players need to make full planning and preparation to fight for more chances.” Li Sun, China Coach

Chen Xingtong and Wang Manyu will be joined by Ding Ning, Liu Shiwen, and Zhu Yuling. Meanwhile the Men’s team in London will consist of Ma Long, Fan Zhendong, Xu Xin, Lin Gaoyuan, and Yu Ziyang.