Hikaru Problem 6

"I want to improve!"  

This is not a formal problem but is interesting. In Chapter 61 Hikaru Shindo and Fujiwara-no-Sai are playing a teaching game. Hikaru has been inspired by his recent game and is talking about how much he wants to get stronger. In the midst of this Hikaru plays 1. Sai is thinking about what Hikaru has just said and criticizes this play.

Where should a student professional (or any student?) play instead of 1? Why?
Solution