Tokyo 2020: David Powell fast-tracked to next round

COVID rules give Aussie Table Tennis player an unexpected path to the next round.

Australia’s David Powell was due to take on the Czech Republic’s Pavel Sirucek on Saturday night, but instead he has advanced directly to the next round. 

Sirucek is one of a number of Czech athletes who's positive COVID tests have unfortunately prevented them competing in the first day of competition at the Tokyo Games.  

This unusual situation has ensured Powell will now move to the next round in order to make his first appearance at these Games, having debuted in Rio. 

"It was a little unusual to hear my opponent had to withdraw, it’s not ideal for anyone, but it does mean that I go through to the next round. The next round will be tougher again, so I’ve got to be on my game and will be ready to go Monday morning,” Powell, a 30-year-old school teacher, said. 

“The Japanese have done a fantastic job. The masks are a small inconvenience for us to be here and do our thing. It’s been great.” 

Read the full story here.

📷 | ITTF