Quadri faces tough Harimoto test in Singapore Smash Rnd of 16
Eyes first win against 19-year-old Japanese in four games
Aruna Quadri will now play against world number four Tomokazu Harimoto in the round of 16 at the ongoing Singapore Smash.
The Nigerian and Africa’s number one booked his place in the last 16 after securing a hard-fought 3-2 (8-11, 11-8, 11-5, 7-11, 11-7) win over Frenchman Alex Lebrun.
Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto also booked his place in the round of 16 after coming back from two sets down to win 3-2 (8-11, 8-11, 11-3, 11-5, 11-3) against Can Akkuzu.
Although Tomokazu Harimoto has beaten Aruna Quadri in their last three meetings, the world number 14, and African champ will be hoping for a favourable result in their fourth meeting.
Incidentally, all of their last three meetings have been in the round of 16 of different competitions and the Japanese emerged victorious in all.
Aruna Quadri v Tomokazu Harimoto Head-to-Head
Hong Kong (07/06/19): Quadri v Harimoto – 0-4 (7-11, 8-11, 9-11, 8-11)
World Cup (29/11/19): Quadri v Harimoto – 1-4 (7-11, 11-13, 10-12, 11-6, 6-11)
WTT Star (10/3/2021): Quadri v Harimoto – 0-3 (4-11, 11-13, 7-11)
The round of 16 clash between Quadri and Harimoto will take place on March 16, 5:30 am Nigerian time.
