He has hit a purple patch of his career. He is reaping rewards for the hard work he has put in for past five years. After winning six gold medals, including the Commonwealth TT Men’s singles and receiving Arjuna Award in a single calendar year, Harmeet Desai believes he still has long way to go. In a candid interview with gstta.in, the Surti talks about his practice, Olympic dreams and of course marriage…
Excerpts …
The 2019 has been defining year for you. Commonwealth singles gold, Arjuna and also a Pro tour title, a dream come true?
Yes, It has been a really good year for me. I wouldn’t have even dreamt of a year like this. I am really happy and grateful with the things that have happened this year.
Which moment has given you maximum satisfaction? Why?
Personally, the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships singles gold was the most satisfying title. It is because at that time I wasn’t in good form. Before the Commonwealth Championships, I wasn’t picked for the World Championships and as a sportsperson you feel bad on missing an opportunity to represent the country. Making the matter worse, my ranking had also slipped a bit. Overall, before the Commonwealth TT happened I had very tough 6-8 months before. The title round match was against G Sathiyan, an uphill task. I overcame all fears and jinx to win gold in that Cuttak’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. It was certainly special and satisfying moment.
When you come home, you ensure there is no lapse in practice session. Who becomes your practice partner? Why?
There are few players like Bhavin Desai, Nilay Thakkar, Harsh Sachanandani, Tushar Chauhan and Nutanshu Dayma with whom I practice with. These are players who know me very well. They help me to overcome my weakness. Also I create tougher situations for me, which builds an atmosphere of a contest. This way I ensure there is no bunking of competitive, serious practice when at home. I have to practice around 5-7 hours daily, whether I am at home, away with my club in Europe or even in at India camp.
Next year is going to be big. It’s Olympic Year. Which are the upcoming events you focusing on?
After the South Asian Games (held in Nepal), I will be preparing hard for the Olympic qualification tournament that will be held in Portugal on 23rd January. Having won six gold medals, confidence is high and I am working hard to be part of India contingent at Tokyo next year.
Former India coach Bhawani Mukherjee sir passed away…
Yes, really sad to hear the news. We all (India team players) had great memories with him. Under his guidance we have won so many titles and medals. He was also instrumental in shaping my career. He will be missed.
Your views on GSTTA’s upcoming professional league next year…
I am really excited to be a part of the upcoming Gujarat Super League. It’s a great step by the Gujarat State Table Tennis Association to help the young players get the exposure of sharing the team dug out with experienced and national level players. It will definitely help table tennis to grow as a sport in our state.
Finally, any plans of getting engaged or married soon?
For next one year, nobody has chance to come between me and my game. Nahi nahi abhi nahi, karo thoda intezar (Not now, you have to wait for that news) (laughs).
Your advice to all young budding paddlers of state…
My advice to all the aspiring young players would be to only concentrate on improving their game rather than the results. If a player works hard and puts in the effort towards his/her game, the results will automatically follow. Something very similar to the message given by the Amir Khan starrer movie 3 Idiots.