Bayley and Davies lead GB squad to France as World Championships preparation steps up

The Great Britain Paralympic table tennis team has officially announced its 12-player squad for the ITTF World Para Elite event in Yvelines, France, from September 12 to 16. This is the final strategic preparation step before the team enters the World Para Table Tennis Championships in Thailand this November. Leading the squad are two veterans: Will Bayley – world champion in men's singles class 7, and Rob Davies – reigning European champion in class 1. Their presence brings strength and experience to an already balanced lineup. Joining them are Jack Hunter-Spivey, Paul Karabardak, Joshua Stacey, Billy Shilton, David Wetherill, Bly Twomey, Grace Williams, Megan Herbert, Theo Bishop, and Yuriko Tessier. According to Table Tennis England, the athletes completed a productive summer training camp in Sheffield. Interim Performance Director Shaun Marples said: 'The team has trained very hard and morale is high. The France event is an opportunity for valuable match practice, improving world rankings and seeding ahead of the World Championships.' The ITTF World Para Elite Yvelines is not just a warm-up; it directly affects world ranking and seeding. The team already qualified for the World Championships, so the main goal in France is to optimise draw positions and build momentum. Marples emphasised: 'We want the players to have the best competitive feel. Every match is precious, especially before the biggest event of the year.' Great Britain is known for its strength across classes 1 to 9. The blend of seasoned champions like Bayley and Davies with young talents such as Bly Twomey (class 7) and Billy Shilton (class 8) shows a well-functioning pipeline. Twomey, aged 17, has impressed in previous tournaments and is expected to surprise in Thailand. Tactically, the biggest challenge for the coaching staff is ensuring the key players maintain form and avoid injuries during this critical phase. Competing in an elite event right before the World Championships is a double-edged sword: it provides sharpness but carries physical risk. However, based on Marples' statements, the coaching team has a sound load management plan. 'This summer we focused on physical and technical foundations. Now it's time to test everything in a real competitive environment. France is the perfect stepping stone,' Marples added. The World Para Table Tennis Championships in Thailand is expected to feature over 300 athletes from around the globe. Great Britain aims for multiple medals, especially in men's singles where Bayley and Davies are strong contenders. The women's team, led by Grace Williams and Megan Herbert, is also expected to go deep. Media interest in the GB para table tennis team is rising, especially after Bayley's silver medal at Tokyo 2026 and his recent world title. Despite this, the team remains focused and humble. 'We don't think about medals. We think about each match, each point. If we do it right, results will come,' Bayley said in a previous interview. Aside from familiar faces, the inclusion of Yuriko Tessier – a Japanese-born player representing GB – is a notable highlight. She is highly regarded for her topspin technique and game reading, and could be a strategic asset in doubles. With thorough preparation—from the Sheffield camp to the elite event in France—the GB Paralympic table tennis team shows clear ambition for the upcoming World Championships. Fans have reason to hope for a successful campaign. However, elite sport always holds surprises, and all eyes will be on Thailand this November to see if these efforts pay off.