by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager

Listed at no.303 on the current Men’s World Rankings, the 25 year old responded; he beat Japan’s Kohei Sambe, ranked no.357, in six games (8-11, 14-12, 11-7, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8) to reserve his place in the main draw.

“I think many things contributed to my success. Among others, my current form, I am happy about the results achieved. However, remember that the tournament is just beginning. I know the conditions; this is a minimal advantage but now I will play against stronger players. I promise that I will fight! I like to play in my country. I always enjoy playing in Poland. Besides, I do not have to waste time travelling. Playing in Poland is an additional motivation for me to repay the fans; it’s a cool thing!” Robert Floras

A hard fought contest but the toughest assignment was that completed by Sweden’s Harald Andersson; he needed the full seven games to halt the progress of Russian teenager, Vladimir Sidorenko (11-4, 11-5, 8-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-13, 11-9).

Success for Robert Floras and Harald Andersson but in the preliminary round of the Men’s Singles event if there was one player who impressed, it was Korea’s Cho Daeseong, the tall left handed 15 year old is a name to note. He beat Konstantin Chernov, like Vladimir Sidorenko from Russia, in four straight games (11-4, 11-6, 11-6, 11-7); he could well prove a handful in the main draw.

Play in the main draw of all events commences on Thursday 15th March.