Mumbai: India’s top table tennis player Achanta Sharath Kamal aims to be in the top-30 in world rankings.
“Fifteen years ago, I went to Europe because I needed basic exposure in international standard events. I became the best in the country, so my next aim is to improve in the international scale.
“There it is a 10 month programme, where we play matches on a home and away basis, during weekends,” the 34-year-old, who is currently world no. 69th. “Now, I wish to break into top-30 in rankings.”
Picked by RP-SG Mavericks for the upcoming Ultimate Table Tennis League, Sharath hoped the event would help youngsters get more exposure playing international stars.
“It is going to be a fantastic tournament. Now, the youngsters can get this kind of exposure in India. So, it is really fantastic for table tennis, we will have some top players here and foreign coaches also. Access to knowledge is readily available,” he said.
Asked about what advice he would give upcoming talent, he said, “You need to aim higher, coming from India it is very difficult, given the financial situation and the lack of exposure we have, we don’t aim big.
“But now I think the scenario is changing, so I think youngsters need to aim high. You have to push yourself to your limits,” he said.
