Quadri Aruna's Forehand Technique

I'm sat here watching the ITTF video of the amazing match between Quadri Aruna (NGR) and Kanak Jha (USA) in the group stage of the recent World Cup in Liege and I can't help but notice just how awkward Aruna's forehand technique from behind the table is (and how incredibly competent Jha is, as an American myself who didn't realize USATT was capable of generating good players, but that's a subject for another time).

It seems that Aruna flips his weight from his forehand to backhand side on a vertical axis rather than rotating on a horizontal axis through the ball. I also notice he consistently starts at the midsection and ends leaning to the side with both hands way above his head.

Is this still 'proper' or at least 'good' forehand technique?

Hi Leeman,

Good observations.

Quadri's technique is unusual but definitely works for him.  It is not something I would recommend for players learning the game though.  It is a very exaggerated swing on the forehand side especially that often finishes up above his head.  It throws him off balance but because he is so athletic he seems to be able to adjust himself quickly enough to recover for the next ball.

As for Khanak Jha, he is great!  Will be interesting to see his next few years.