NTTF picks 10 for 2017 African Junior Championships

The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) has unveiled a 10-man team that will represent Nigeria at the 2017 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) African Junior and Cadet Championships holding in Tunis.

The players, according to the federation were selected based on their past and present records as well as several trials organised by the federation.

The continental championship serves as qualifiers for the World Junior Championship in Italy later in the year and it serves off on April 9 and ends April 15.

The boys’ team, which has Abayomi Animashaun, Amadi Umeh, Jamiu Ayanwale and Taiwo Mati, will be led by Lagos State champion, Azeez Solanke.

Junior sensation, Tosin Oribamise will spearhead the girls’ team alongside Agnes Onoja, Rafiat Jimoh, Sukurat Aiyelabegan and Iyanuoluwa Falana.

Debutants like Ayanwale, Mati, Jimoh, Aiyelabegan and Falana will rely on the experience of the likes of Solanke, Animashaun, Umeh, Oribamise and Onoja at the championship which will also be used to select the African team for the World Cadet Challenge.

The Nigerian team is expected to compete in the team, doubles, mixed doubles and singles events of cadet, junior and U-21.

Also, Solanke and Oribamise will represent Nigeria in the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Qualifiers on April 16 to 17 at same venue in Tunis.