by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

The aim is to become the first Indian medalist in the table tennis events at the Olympic Games; a grade eight pupil at the Phirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai, he is well aware of the hard work and dedication needed.

“I know it is not going to be a child’s play to win an Olympic medal but I am ready to walk the path and hope that my efforts will take me there. Even the present crop of senior players in India cannot achieve the goal, I am ready to take the bull by the horns and achieve it.” Mainak Nistala

Ambitious and on the ITTF World Junior Circuit already he has enjoyed success; last year in Tunisia he was a bronze medallist in the mini-cadet boys’ singles event.

“I love table tennis because it is a sport where pace and tactics combine simultaneously to achieve success. Also, unlike football or cricket which take several hours for each match; table tennis is a very fast sport that can be concluded within an hour; this for me makes me love the sport more.” Mainak Nistala

Progressing in Accra but at a recent national tournament it was a semi-final defeat; nevertheless, Mainak Nistala remains positive.

“To be the best you have to beat the best and I am ready to beat the best in India and continue to compete internationally to gain experience. I have played in two previous tournaments in Oman and Tunisia; this being my third tournament, I look forward to competing more this year.” Mainak Nistala