Kenya table tennis head coach, Fahd Daim, believes the country can match the standards of their opponents on the global stage if effective youth structures are put in place.
Daim spoke after Kenya's representative in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Brian Mutua crashed out after putting up a gallant fight at the NEC Hall on Wednesday.
Mutua recovered from his opening 4-2 loss to Mauritian Akhilen Yogarajah to beat Ramon Maxell from Barbados 4-1.
He, however, failed to advance to the quarterfinal stage after wrapping up second in the men’s Group Seven singles.
“The boy played very well. We were all surprised. He was just unlucky. His opponent got three points that made him points which gave him the lead. But Mutua performed really well and next time he meets the boy he will beat him badly,” Fahd said.
“We are so happy because people at home will watch and follow in his footsteps. At least now we have the youngsters coming up. Mostly now we will be concentrating on the juniors,” he added.
Mutua said he felt satisfied with his performance despite the early exit.
“The game was tight but I believe I played well despite the few mistakes here and there. Overall I'm satisfied with my performance,” Mutua said.
“I think I rushed the game a little bit because the opponent hardly gave me time to rest or take a breath. I made a little mistake in service and reception which I believe cost me the game.”
“I feel proud I had some good shots and I was able to improve from my past competitions.
He said the experience gave his opponents the extra edge and promised to record better results in his next international outing.
“I believe we have a chance if we get to practice more. Most of these players play the game professionally for almost eight hours a day. We just have to match how they practice and we shall soon be on the same level.”
Mutua’s compatriot Jenny Amadi was due to play Danisha Jayant Patel from South Africa and Solesha Young from Jamaica in Group 10 of women’s singles.
