In Harimoto’s rise, lies a lesson for India TT players

A large number of children play and those who are good get specialised training. The system is being supported by parents who encourage children to play for the country

NEW DELHI: It isn’t child’s play to beat Tomokazu Harimoto in table tennis. At 13, he has nearly a decade’s experience. Ask Achanta Sharath Kamal, who lost to him in the semifinal of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) World Tour on Saturday.

Even world No 5 Dimitrij Ovtcharov of Germany, who is taking part here, is aware of the child prodigy. Harimoto had claimed the world junior title in December to become the youngest to win an age group title.

“’You need to play differently when facing him (Harimoto),” said Ovtcharov.

Such is Harimoto’s focus that even leisure hours are devoted to strengthening basics. When at home, he spends time polishing skills.

According to coach Kunihito Tasei, table tennis is an integral part of the school curriculum in Japan. “A large number of children play and those who are good get specialised training. The system is being supported by parents who encourage children to play for the country,” he said through an interpreter.

Harimoto is also a product of this culture, he added. The concept of scouting for talent at the grassroots was floated keeping in mind the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“Being the hosts, we want to win medals in table tennis. Our main rival is China. We have a good bunch of teenagers who are expected to deliver the goods in 2020,” said Tasei.

Table tennis demands a high level of fitness, but the Japanese don’t push their children into weight training. Instead, the focus is on drills and agility. Emphasis is also laid on flexibility.

Apart from drills, there is balance on and off the field. “We believe in good training, eating healthy food and sound sleep. All are bunched together,” said the coach.

Perhaps the message to excel at the Tokyo Games has been understood and those like Harimoto have set the tone — he is best in the world in the under-21 category.

When the Olympics start, Harimoto will be 17, and would surely be the one to watch.