BADMINTON
3 things about Malaysian squad at upcoming BAMTC
The Malaysian contingent are due to contest at the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships (BAMTC) from Feb 11-16 taking place in Qingdao, China. Stadium Astro highlights three talking points ahead of the event.
Malaysia bidding to reach the semis for the first time
The national team have yet to reach the last four since the tournament began back in 2017. They have made the quarter-finals on three occasions, but saw their campaign end in that stage.
In 2017, they lost 3-0 against China, before suffering the same scoreline defeat against Japan two years later. At the last edition in 2023, they lost 3-2 against China.
Soon Huat-Shevon will inject quality and experience
Of all the squad members, this husband-wife combination have shown much needed consistency and are currently ranked fourth in the world.
They were selected based on their recent form, which saw them reach two semi-finals in three tournaments this year.
The most interesting showdown will come against Indonesia, where Goh-Lai could face either Dejan Ferdinansyah, Lisa Ayu, Rinov Rivaldy or Siti Fadia Ramadhanti.
Goh and Lai are also the most experienced members at 34 & 31 respectively, and their experience could prove a crucial factor to seal a spot in the quarter-finals.
Justin & Jun Hao face tough ties vs Hong Kong
With Lee Zii Jia omitted from the squad and Ng Tze Yong still not match fit, Leong Jun Hao and Justin Hoh will carry the country’s hopes in the men’s singles.
While they could secure points against Indonesia’s young shuttlers, it will be a different story against Hong Kong who are fielding their strongest line-up in the form of Angus Ng and Lee Cheuk Yiu.
Ng and Cheuk Yiu are both ranked 20 and 21 respectively and have the ability to beat any top player on their day.
If Malaysia are to score a win against Hong Kong, either Leong or Hoh must first show up by delivering a point.