Akanbi optimistic of retaining Asoju Oba Cup

Defending champion of the Asoju Oba Cup Table Tennis Championship, Rilwan Akanbi hopes to retain the title he won last year when the competition begins at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium between November 27 and December 1.

Akanbi, who defeated Azeez Solanke in 4 to 3 sets to win the last edition, said he was not ready to relinquish the title yet “because I have been training hard for the tournament this year.

“I am aware that a lot of players are keen to be part of this year’s tournament and I have to tell them that it is not going to be easy for them to claim the title just like that from me. I am ready to hold on tight to my title.”

Akanbi, who gained some exposure representing the nation at last year’s World Junior Championships in South Africa, said the experience he got at the cadet championship would serve him right.

“I had the opportunity of playing against some of the best players in the world. My contest against Asian opponents will particularly be helpful to me at this championship,” Akanbi added.

The championship has produced notable household names in the sport, including Atanda Musa, the late Yomi Bankole and Babatunde Obisanya, among others.