KUALA LUMPUR – Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) has taken decisive action by removing three men’s singles shuttlers from their squad, as announced by coaching director Rexy Mainaky today.
This strategic decision follows a comprehensive re-evaluation of player performance throughout the year.
The sacked players are Lee Shun Yang, Chia Jeng Hon, and Rex Hooi.
Rexy explained that the decision was not solely based on tournament results against opponents of varying rankings but also took into account the players’ commitment during training sessions, as reported by their coaches.
“Making such decisions is never easy, typically, only one or two shuttlers out of the total 15 are dropped.
“The evaluations were conducted meticulously and fairly,” he said during a press conference at the academy.
Rexy emphasised that the decision was data-driven and not solely based on wins and losses.
In addition to the player exclusions, the men’s singles squad has been divided into two groups.
Grade A includes Ng Tze Yong, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin, Leong Jun Hao, Justin Hoh, and the recently promoted Eogene Ewe.
Grade B comprises Shaqeem Eiman Shahyar, Chua Kim Sheng, Ong Ken Yon, Ong Zhen Yi, and Jacky Kok.
Hendrawan, the national men’s singles head coach, clarified that Grade B players will have reduced participation in international tournaments, approximately four to six a year, effective in 2024.
He stressed the need for a balance between potential champions and those who support the training system.
“We know that maybe between eight or 10 players, not all of them can be champions. But we also need players who support our training system,” he said in the same press conference.
Despite Shun Yang’s removal from the national team, Hendrawan stated that he is permitted to continue training at ABM, albeit only as a sparring partner for the squad. – December 19, 2023