KUALA LUMPUR – Former national junior coach Kwan Yoke Meng believes that the men’s doubles pair, Aaron Tai and Kang Khai Xing, have the potential to secure gold for Malaysia at the upcoming Asia Junior Badminton Championships in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, starting June 28.
The 1992 Thomas Cupper’s confidence stems from Aaron and Khai Xing’s current performances and their positions as the top two players in the world junior rankings.
They have already clinched two championships this year: the Dutch International Junior and the Thailand International Challenge in March.
This edition marks the last appearance for both players, presenting an ideal opportunity to end Malaysia’s drought in the Asia Junior men’s team championship under-19 category, last won by Teo Kok Siang and Mak Hee Chun in 2008 in Kuala Lumpur.
However, the 58-year-old coach acknowledges the threat posed by several other countries, including Indonesia, China, and South Korea.
In the previous edition, despite being favourites, Aaron and Khai Xing stumbled in the second round, resulting in Malaysia returning empty-handed.
“In tournaments like this, Indonesia, China, and South Korea will always be challenging to Malaysia,” said Yoke Meng.
“So, I think our best chance in the individual event is with Aaron and Khai Xing. They are the closest to winning medals for the Malaysian squad.
“But at the same time, I also feel that this team is a strong one, with balanced strength, and all teams have the opportunity to win,” said Yoke Meng.
Last week, the Badminton Association Malaysia announced a list of 22 players to participate in the Asia Junior Badminton Championships, with 16 of them competing in the mixed team event.
Since the team event format changed to mixed team in 2006, Malaysia has been crowned champions twice, in the 2007 and 2009 editions. – June 2, 2024