Both Hirano and Kihara had nerve of steel! Both fought hare esp Kihara without a coach! Now they face each other next……(too bad I like them both) but I think Hirano has a slight edge?
Yokio can be very competitive domestically. Wonder when will she be given the opportunity to compete in a WTT event? Or will she ever? (Aka is she always going to be their target practice drilling partner only?)
Sounds like some bad blood happened hence the no coach on the bench decision. I wonder how much of Ito’s mother bares responsibility of her triumph and now decline….