Sunday, February 24, 2013

Kien Keat believes he is ready for glory at All-England

<B>Feeling good:</B> Koo Kien Keat is happy with his physical condition after his holiday breakFeeling good: Koo Kien Keat is happy with his physical condition after his holiday break
Koo Kien Keat’s body is aching all over after a week of strenuous physical training since returning from his Chinese New Year celebration.
But the 27-year-old doubles shuttler is feeling good inside as he gets ready to battle with his partner Tan Boon Heong at the All-England in Birmingham from March 5-10.
Although the draw is relatively easy, Kien Keat said that what mattered most was his own form and condition.
“I have been following proper training over the last few days. The focus has been on building my physical condition. My body is aching but I feel good,” said Kien Keat after a training session under Indonesian coach Paulus Firman at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara yesterday.
“I have been committed to catching up on my physical programme after the Chinese New Year. So far, all is going on fine. On court, I am working on displaying a more consistent performance.”
Kien Keat-Boon Heong, the 2007 All-England champions, are seeded second in the prestigious tournament. The duo are in the same half of the draw with three other seeded pairs – Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa of Japan (fourth), Hong Wei-Shen Ye of China (fifth) and Kim Sa-rang-Kim Ki-jung of South Korea (sixth).
They will play England’s Chris Adcock-Andrew Ellis in the first round.
If all goes according to book, Kien Keat-Boon Heong may meet Hong Wei-Shen Ye in the quarter-finals. The Malaysians were surprisingly beaten by the Chinese pair in the second round of the All-England last year.
“This Chinese pair is ranked fifth in the world and we will not underestimate them. After the All-England loss, we beat them in the China League. If we are well prepared, we can take them on,” said Kien Keat
On the fast-rising world No. 6 Sa-rang-Ki-jung, Kien Keat said: “It’s more difficult to play against Sa-rang-Ki-jung compared to their more famous seniors Lee Yong-dae-Ko Sung-hyun. Sa-rang-Ki-jung are very crafty.
“It’s quite uncomfortable playing against them at times. Against Yong-dae-Sung-hyun, it is all about fitness. We hope to do well.”
All the other heavyweights – Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng of China, Yong-dae-Sung-hyun and Mohd Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan of Indonesia – are drawn in top half with top seeds Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen of Denmark.
The All-England will also be a special event for another reason for Kien Keat. He is running for the chairman post of the Badminton World Federation (BWF)’s athletes commission.
The voting will be held over two days during the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim from Feb 26-March 3 and another two days at the All-England.
“I was nominated by the BAM (Badminton Association of Malaysia) because I am one of the ‘veterans’. If I am selected, I hope to be the voice for all the athletes. Let’s see how it goes.”
If all goes well, it could be a double celebration for Kien Keat.
Courtesy of The Star

Chin Chai tells Koo-Tan: Forget number one spot and go for titles

<b>Second best:</b> Tan Boon Heong (left) and Koo Kien Keat have been seeded second in the All-England next month.


Second best: Tan Boon Heong (left) and Koo Kien Keat have been seeded second in the All-England next month.

Top men’s doubles shuttlers Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong may be able to regain their world No. 1 status after a three-year lapse with a strong showing in Europe.
But Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) secretary Ng Chin Chai believes winning titles is more meaningful than wrestling back the world No. 1 status for the duo.
Kien Keat-Boon Heong, the world No. 2, will be playing in back-to back tournaments at the All-England in Birmingham from March 5-10 and the Swiss Open from March 12-17.
The duo are seeded second behind world No. 1 Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen of Denmark in the All-England.
They are vying for their second All-England title, having won it in 2007.
For the Swiss Open, Kien Keat-Boon Heong have been given the top billing.
They, however, face a tricky path with formidable pairs Lee Yong-dae-Ko Sung-hyun and Kim Sa-rang-Kim Ki-jung of South Korea and Mohd Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan of Indonesia in the fray.
All these three pairs have won at least one title in the last six months.
Chin Chai said it would give Kien Keat and Boon Heong a huge boost ahead of the World Championships in Guangzhou in August if they end their three-year major title drought in one of the European tournaments.
The duo have not won anything big since winning the 2010 Malaysian Open Super Series.
They nailed the Malaysian Open Grand Prix Gold last year in a tournament without any big stars.
“I am happy with the steady progress shown by them since the Olympic Games last year. I hope they will display stronger performances this year and win major titles,” said Chin Chai.
Since losing in the bronze medal playoff at the London Olympic Games in August, a transformed Kien Keat-Boon Heong reached the finals of the Opens in Japan, Denmark and Hong Kong.
They, however, failed to win any titles.
“Kien Keat-Boon Heong’s ranking points are quite close with Mathias-Carsten. I will be happy if they can maintain a top four ranking until the world meet as it will give them a good seeding. I want them to win titles before the World Champion-ships so that it will put them in good stead going into a major event,” said Chin Chai.
Kien Keat-Boon Heong were ranked world No. 1 for more than a year between 2009-2010.
Courtesy of The Star

All England: Daren hopes for another smashing performance

<b>Flying high:</b> Liew Daren reached the quarter-finals of the All-England last year.Flying high: Liew Daren reached the quarter-finals of the All-England last year.
National men’s singles shuttler Liew Daren is determined to keep the good times rolling in the All-England for the second year in a row.
The 25-year-old Daren has been drawn to meet former world champion Chen Jin of China in the first round in Birmingham from March 5-10 but he is not intimidated by the challenging opener.
He has yet to beat Chen Jin in his career but he hopes to take advantage of the world No. 5 shuttler’s slide in form.
The Chinese failed to win any Super Series titles last year in an injury-plagued season.
In contrast, Daren’s fortunes changed for the better since he reached the quarter-finals of the All-England for the first time last year.
The breakthrough in Birmingham gave him a lot of confidence, including winning his first-ever Super Series title at the French Open in October.
He has also improved his world ranking from outside the top 50 to his current No. 12th spot.
Daren said he would live up to their high hopes on him.
“It is a tough first round match for me. I am not seeded so I’ve no chance of avoiding the top players in the early rounds. I kind of expected this,” said Daren.
“After doing well in last year’s All-England, expectations are higher on me to outperform myself again. I have played Chen Jin once – at last year’s Swiss Open and I lost to him in the quarter-finals (8-21, 21-23).
“It will not be easy to get the better of him but I have to believe that it is not an impossible task.”
Daren hopes for a good showing to boost his chances of breaking into the top eight before the World Championships in Guangzhou in August.
The qualifying period for the world meet will end in April. The seedings will be based on the world ranking in July.
“If I can consistently play well in the next few tournaments starting with the All-England, I may be able to break into the top eight. This is my target.
“Being ranked in the top eight will help me avoid seeded players in the early rounds of the World Championships and brightens my chance of making the quarter-finals.”
Daren’s only concern right now is his condition.
He injured his foot during the Indonesian Super League in Jakarta prior to the Chinese New Year.
“I have received treatment for my injury and I have also taken all the preventive measures since I returned to training. I am now keeping my fingers crossed that the injury will not rob me of a chance of enjoying another good run in Birmingham,” said Daren.
Daren and Chen Jin are drawn in the lower half of the draw with second seed Chen Long of China, who is bidding for his first All-England title. The others in the same half are Japan’s Kenichi Tago, Indonesian Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen, Thailand’s Boonsak Ponsana and Malaysia’s Chong Wei Feng.
In the top half with top seed and two-time All-England champion Lee Chong Wei are three China’s youngsters – Wang Zhengming, Du Pengyu and Gao Huan.
The other notable names are Vietnam’s Nguyen Tien Minh and Indonesia’s old and new stars - Taufik Hidayat and Tommy Sugiarto.
Courtesy of The Star

All England: World No 1 taking China threats seriously

LEE Chong Wei is primed to win his third All England crown but the World No 1 said he will not take it for granted despite the absence of nemesis Lin Dan.
Tuesday's draw saw rising China duo Chen Long and Du Pengyu in Chong Wei's path and the top seed said he would have to be on top of his game in Birmingham on March 5-10.
Chong Wei has engaged in several battles with Chen Long and Pengyu since the London Olympics last year and he doesn't want to take them for granted.
Besides Lin Dan, Chen Long is the only player to have enjoyed regular success over Chong Wei in the last three years -- winning five of their 12 meetings while Pengyu has a solitary win in eight matches.
Chong Wei is expected to meet Pengyu, the third seed, in the last four before an expected final showdown with Chen Long in the final.
"Lin Dan is not around but China still have two young players who have been playing well.
"If I can include my possible second round opponent (Wang Zhengming), that will be three China players and I have to go through a lone battle," said Chong Wei.
"Since I am the World No 1, everyone has been aiming to beat me and all I can do is be prepared to give my best in the All England.
"Battling alone against the rest makes it tough sometimes but as long as I have the desire to win, I should be okay.
"Although I had a good start this year by winning the Korea and Malaysia Opens, I have to stay focused all the time and cannot underestimate my opponents although I have been playing with almost the same players for years now.
"The World Championships and the All England are my priorities this year and I hope I can maintain my form and go on to win both titles."
Chong Wei's hat-trick bid last year was halted by a shoulder injury midway through the second game in the final against Lin Dan but the five-time champion has been missing from competition since winning the Olympic gold in London.
Chong Wei begins his campaign against Wong Wing Ki of Hong Kong and should play Zhengming in the second round and can then expect another easy encounter against Nguyen Tien Minh of Vietnam in the last eight.
It will be hard for Pengyu to recover from the thrashing he received in the final of the Korea Open and Chong Wei will have the upper hand should they clash again in last four.
Chen Long's mental strength is suspect, especially when the stakes are high and no matter how cautious Chong Wei is, the All England is for him to lose.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Thursday, February 21, 2013

All England: China's Youngster Out To Ruin Our Double Joy Bid

China will be banking on their youngsters to break the resolves of top players – Lee Chong Wei and Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong – to prevent them from making it a double joy for Malaysia at the All-England badminton tournament in Birming­ham from March 5-10.
In the draw released by Badminton World Federation (BWF) yesterday, top seed Chong Wei will take on Wong Wing Ki of Hong Kong in the first round but he has three youngsters from China – Wang Zhengming, Du Pengyu and Gao Huan – in his half.
Although two-time All-England champion Chong Wei is the favourite but the young upstarts are capable of wearing him down and this could test the world No. 1 shuttler’s stamina.
In the lower half of the draw are second seed Chen Long and former world champion Chen Jin of China, Indonesia’s rejuvenated Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Japan’s Kenichi Tago.
Malaysia also have two other players in the lower half but Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng have challenging openers as they will take on Chen Jin and Jan O Jorgensen of Denmark respectively.
National singles chief coach Rashid Sidek said he could foresee China’s game plan based on the draw.
“If Chong Wei beats Wing Ki, he will probably take on Wang Zhengming in the second round. In the Korean Open last month, Zhengming gave Chong Wei a run for his money. I am sure he will be out to made Chong Wei stay on court as long as possible,” said Rashid.
“Then there could be Pengyu or Gao Han in the semi-finals.
“Pengyu is the more dangerous one as he had beaten Chong Wei once when the Malaysian was physically and mentally drained at the Super Series Masters Finals in China in December. He will be out to push Chong Wei to the limit again.
“If Chong Wei makes it to the final after all the tough matches, it will surely be very taxing for him. Chen Long is the favourite to enter the final from the lower half.
“Despite all this, I am still confident Chong Wei’s campaign will go down well in this edition.”
On the chances of Daren and Wei Feng, Rashid said: “It is tough from the start but this is expected. I hope Daren and Wei Feng will be able to rise above expectations and get the better of their higher ranked opponents.”
China’s young pair Hong Wei-Shen Ye stand in the way of Kien Keat-Boon Heong moving beyond the quarter-finals.
The Chinese youngsters have beaten the Malaysians twice in three meetings and their last victory over the Malaysians was at last year’s All-England second round.
But national doubles chief coach Tan Kim Her is confident that 2007 All-England champions Kien Keat-Boon Heong would get past the quarter-finals based on their commitment in training.
“To me, I consider the draw to be fair for Koo and Tan. They will play England’s Chris Adcock-Andrew Ellis in the opening round and on current form, should get the better of the Chinese pair if they cross path,” said Kim Her.
And there is a possibility for Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem making it an all-Malaysian semi-final with Kien Keat-Boon Heong if they can overcome higher ranked pairs – Hirokatsu Hashimoto-Noriyasu Hirata and Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa of Japan, Kim Ki-jung-Kim sa-rang of South Korea and Indonesia’s Markis Kido-Alven Yulianto.
In the top half of the draw, two Malaysian pairs – Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong and Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari – will have for company top seeds Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen of Denmark, South Koreans Lee Yong-dae-Ko Sung-hyun, China’s Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng and Mohd Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan of Indonesia.
“It is obvious that Hoon and Tan are in the tougher half of the draw. They may play Yong-dae-Sung-hyun in the second round but I hope they will give a good fight against the fancied pair,” said Kim Her.
In the mixed doubles, Malaysia’s hope rests on world No. 3 Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying but they have been drawn in a tough half as they have China’s two great pairs – top seeds Xu Chen-Ma Jin and fifth seeds Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei for company.
They may meet Zhang-Zhao in the quarter-finals.
For the record, Malaysia last tasted double joy in the 1966 All-England through Tan Aik Huang (singles) and Ng Boon Bee-Tan Yee Khan (doubles).
Courtesy of The Star

Chong Wei Resumes Training After CNY Break

Working hard: Coach Tey Seu Bock is optimistic that Lee Chong Wei will live up to expectations during the All-England Championships in Birmingham from March 5-10.Working hard: Coach Tey Seu Bock is optimistic that Lee Chong Wei will live up to expectations during the All-England Championships in Birmingham from March 5-10.
After a one-week break for the Chinese New Year, world No. 1 shuttler Lee Chong Wei has resumed training at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara.
National singles coach Tey Seu Bock was as pleased as punch after observing Chong Wei’s attitude on the first few days of training.
And Seu Bock confidently declared that Chong Wei would be the favourite for the All-England in Birmingham from March 5-10 and that the Malaysian would remain unbeatable in the local badminton scene.
He gave the thumbs-up on Chong Wei’s serious attitude and discipline during training and he’s hoping that others like Liew Daren, Chong Wei Feng and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, will learn to adopt the same outlook.
Out of the three, only Daren had beaten Chong Wei once – at the Indonesian Super League in Jakarta in one of the ties before the Chinese New Year.
“Normally, a player will take it easy on the first few days after a long break but not Chong Wei. He ravages the court and has an unwavering focus,” said Seu Bock.
“Chong Wei is surely showing much greater maturity on court after his marriage. With this positive attitude going into the All-England, I would reckon that he will not make it easy on his opponents at all – despite hitting his 30s.”
Chong Wei won the prestigious All-England singles title in 2010 and 2011 but last year lost to Lin Dan of China in the final.
For this year’s edition, Lin Dan has skipped the tournament, leaving the job to spoil Chong Wei’s party to his younger comrades – second seed Chen Long and Du Pengyu.
“I do not see any of the local players overtaking Chong Wei as long as he is around. Their standard is still quite far behind,” said Seu Bock.
“In training, Daren, Wei Feng and Arif are still lagging. I wish they can push Chong Wei to the limit and not resign to the fact that they cannot get the better of him. They must try harder to give quality time during training.”
Currently, all singles players – elite and back-up are training together – and all three coaches Rashid Sidek, Seu Bock and Hendrawan are working together.
The back-up players are Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin, Goh Soon Huat, Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub, Loh Wei
Sheng, Goh Giap Chin, Tan Kian Meng and Choong Yee Han.
“Eventually, we hope the others will start winning titles as well,” added Seu Bock.
For the record, except for Chong Wei, all the other elite players will be competing in two tournaments in Europe. Daren, Wei Feng and Arif have also been entered for the Swiss Open from March 12-17 in Basel.
Courtesy of The Star
High hopes: Malaysians Chooi Kah Ming and Ow Yao Han (front) are the top seeds for the Vienna Open.High hopes: Malaysians Chooi Kah Ming and Ow Yao Han (front) are the top seeds for the Vienna Open.
Former world junior boys doubles champions Chooi Kah Ming-Ow Yao Han have not won any badminton titles since coming under the charge of Tan Kim Her but all that could change soon.
The promising shuttlers are slated to compete in the Austrian International Challenge starting tomorrow at Vienna and the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim from Feb 26-March 3.
The reigning national runners-up have a better chance to nick the title in Vienna as they are the top seeds.
National doubles chief coach Kim Her, however, would be contented if they score at least one upset win each in the Austria and German Open respectively.
“In the Austrian Open, they will probably face tough opponents – Bodin Isara-Pakkawat Vilailak of Thailand – in the quarter-finals. This match will be a tricky one as Bodin is a very experienced player,” said Kim Her.
The other Malaysian pair in the fray in Vienna are 2011 world junior champions Teo Eei Yi-Nelson Heg Wei Keat but they have a challenging path to final.
“Kah Ming-Yao Han have been showing marked progress and they did well in last year’s National Championships. Hopefully, they can pull off a good win.”
In the German Open, the duo have been drawn to play against fifth seeds Vladimir Ivanov-Ivan Sozonov of Russia.
“I am not looking beyond the first round. The Russians are strong opponents and to me, a win against them will be a bonus,” said Kim Her.
Currently, Kah Ming-Yao Han are ranked 32nd in the world. Their fast progress as a pair is commendable – especially when Kah Ming was ruled out because of a knee injury for a year in 2011.
Five local pairs are ranked ahead of them: World No. 2 Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong, Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong (9th), Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem (19th), Gan Teik Chai-Ong Soon Hock (22nd) and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (23rd).
Courtesy of The Star

Kien Keat, Boon Heong wajib menang

Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong mesti menghasilkan ‘keputusan’ pada Siri Super Perdana Seluruh England kerana kejohanan itu menjadi sasaran ditetapkan ke atas gandingan itu tahun ini, menurut ketua jurulatih beregu, Tan Kim Her.
Ini bermakna Kien Keat-Boon Heong mesti menjuarai Seluruh England selepas sekian lama tidak menjuarai kejohanan berstatus Siri Super sejak kali terakhir menjuarai Terbuka Switzerland 2009.
“Kien Keat-Boon Heong mesti berjaya di England kerana kejohanan itu dan Kejohanan Dunia menjadi sasaran tahun ini,” kata Kim Her.
Kien Keat-Boon Heong pernah menjuarai Seluruh England, 2007 dan hampir mengulanginya dua tahun lalu selepas mengejutkan gandingan China, Fu Haifeng-Cai Yun dua set tanpa balas di separuh akhir, namun mereka kalah kepada gandingan utama dunia ketika itu, Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen dari Denmark di final.
Laluan ke final kali ini lebih mudah jika mereka benar-benar berada di puncak prestasi kerana pemain China, Hong Wei-Shen Ye yang menundukkan mereka di pusingan kedua tahun lalu, bakal ditemui di suku akhir.
Meskipun tempat ke Kejohanan Dunia di Guangzhou, China, Ogos depan sudah pasti ditempah Kien Keat-Boon Heong dan satu lagi gandingan negara, Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong, Kim Her menuntut gandingan itu berusaha keras membuktikan mereka kini perlu dihormati lawan lain.
Sementara itu, beliau juga mahu Thien How-Wee Kiong merangkul kejuaraan sepanjang tahun ini kerana mereka kini dianggap gandingan elit dan tiada tekanan buat mereka kerana sudah sah beraksi di Kejohanan Dunia.
Kien Keat-Boon heong dan Thien How-Wee Kiong kini dilatih sepenuhnya oleh jurulatih dari Indonesia, Paulus Firman.
Perkembangan pemain beregu negara ketika ini turut menggembirakan Kim Her terutamanya prestasi konsisten yang dipamer Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah, yang berada di bawah jagaannya.

Pemain negara ada misi penting

Monday, February 18, 2013

Maximum exposure!

NATIONAL doubles chief coach Tan Kim Her wants to give maximum exposure to his charges in the Sudirman Cup and plans to name up to seven pairs for the mixed team event if the BA of Malaysia (BAM) gives the greenlight.
Since the Sudirman Cup will be held at Putra Stadium on May 19-26, Kim Her believes that naming the maximum number of 20 players, as permitted by the competition's rules, will help the back-up pairs earn valuable exposure.
BAM will normally consider between eight and 10 players for the Sudirman Cup due to financial constraint but funding will not be an issue this time as Malaysia are the hosts.
Lee Chong Wei will lead the team with Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng likely to get the nod for the men's singles. Three women's singles players are also expected to be included.
Kim Her said Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong are sure bets for the men's doubles and subject to approval, Tan Wee Kiong-Hoon Thien How and Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah are also expected to be included.
At least two pairs of women's doubles and mixed doubles should also be included should Kim Her's request gets the greenlight from BAM.
"Normally, we use to enter about ten players for the Sudirman Cup as it is costly to send a big team abroad. However, a team can name a maximum of 20 players so we can a take advantage of that and use the opportunity to expose our back-up players for the event," said Kim Her.
"Since we are in Level 1 with the top nations, all the players will earn good exposure. I don't want to let this opportunity slip by. "Three men's doubles pairs can be considered and the mixed doubles and women's doubles can have at least two each.
"I believe the men's and women's singles will have three each but I need to discuss this with Rashid (Sidek) first before deciding on the numbers."
Malaysia's best achievement in the Sudirman Cup was reaching the semi-finals in Guangzhou four years ago. In the last edition in Qingdao in 2011, they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by South Korea.
Malaysia have a fighting chance of reaching the last four again if Kien Keat-Boon Heong and mixed doubles Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying can deliver with the reliable Chong Wei likely contribute a point in almost every match.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

Coach: Thien How-Wee Kiong need more punch in attack

Newly appointed coach Paulus Firman has yet to complete one month at work but he already knows what is holding back Malaysia’s second ranked pair Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong from achieving a breakthrough – their toothless attacking game.
And he plans to give them more bite so they can live up to their status as one of the top 10 men’s doubles pairs in the world.
Elite shuttlers Thien How-Wee Kiong, who are currently ranked 10th in the world, have not won any Open titles and their best achievement was a semi- final finish in the Japan Open last year.
However, hopes are high on the duo making a breakthrough at the All-England from March 5-10.
Paulus, who had a chance of observing Thien How-Wee Kiong during the Indonesian Super League and also in training, said that the duo had the potential but their attacking forte must improve.
Besides Thien How-Wee Kiong, Paulus is also responsible for world No. 2 Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Lutfi Zaim Abdul Khalid-Tan Wee Gieen.
“Currently, Hoon and Tan’s consistency and concentration in a game is not that stable yet. One moment, they will play exceptionally well and the next, they just lose their focus easily,” said Paulus.
“In order to match the other more established pairs, Hoon and Tan will have to add more power and sting to their attacking game. Currently, their attacking play is readable,” he said.
At the Indonesian Super League, Thien How-Wee Kiong played as the first doubles and lost two out of their six matches. Their most disappointing match was probably against Indonesians Rian Sukmawan-Rendra Wijaya in the final. Malaysia eventually lost 2-3 to Musica Champion.
Malaysia could have won the tie if they had won.
Paulus said he hopes to put things right during training.
“Having the right mentality during training is important.
“If we get it right here, everything else will fall into place. I will be helping Hoon and Tan to beef up their attacking game and hopefully, it will help them achieve more success.”
In the All-England, Thien How-Wee Kiong are unseeded while Kien Keat-Boon Heong will open their campaign as the second seeds.
“It is an important tournament for both these pairs. A good showing will surely put them on the right track for the World Championships this year (August in Guangzhou),” added Paulus.
Courtesy of The Star

Pair's rocky trail

LEE Chong Wei is not expected to face any difficulty in his quest to win a third All England crown but men's doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong are not so lucky.
The struggling pair -- if the seedings are any indication -- face the prospect of meeting either Olympic champions Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng of China or bogeymen Kim Ki Jung-Kim Sa Rang of South Korea in the quarter-finals in the March 5-10 event.
Chong Wei, the top seed, should avoid China duo Chen Long, seeded second and Du Pengyu, seeded third until the final and is expected to face fourth seeded Sony Dwi Kuncoro of Indonesia in the last four.
The World No 1 should clear the last eight with ease as he could play either Chen Jin of China, the fifth seed, or eighth seeded Nguyen Tien Minh of Vietnam.
Chong Wei was denied his hat-trick of All England titles by Lin Dan last year but the latter's absence makes it easier for the Malaysian this time.
However, second seeds Kien Keat-Boon Heong face another early exit should they meet Ki Jung-Sa Rang, the sixth seeds, or Cai Yun-Haifeng, the seventh seeds, in the last eight.
The only consolation for Kien Keat-Boon Heong is that they should be able to survive the preliminary stage after suffering a second round defeat to Hong Wei-Shen Ye of China in Birmingham last year.
National doubles chief coach Tan Kim Her said it is about time Kien Keat-Boon Heong start performing better to maintain their position in the top four to receive a favourable seeding for the World Championships in August.
"Sung Hyun-Yong Dae are most likely to move up a spot to World No 2 while other pairs can also overtake them if Kien Keat-Boon Heong lose early in the All England. They must start performing and think about winning against the Korean pairs and Cai Yun-Haifeng," said Kim Her.
"They have been playing almost the same pairs in the later stages and they must, at least, start reaching the final or they will find themselves out of the top eight very soon.
"If they are not seeded in the top four for the World Championships, it will be very difficult for them to achieve their target of going for the title.
"The good thing is that they have a new coach in Paulus (Firman) and both must sit down with him and start finding ways to beat the top pairs again."
Mixed doubles Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying are the only other Malaysians seeded in the All England and the No 3 seeds have good chance of avoiding China pairs Xu Chen-Ma Majin and Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei.
There is a strong possibility Xu Chen-Majin, the top seeds, may clash with Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei in the semi-finals while Peng Soon-Liu Ying should have a fighting chance of battling for a place in the final from the bottom half.
Peng Soon-Liu Ying may clash with either Sudket Prapakamol-Saralee Thungthongkam of Thailand or Indonesia's Muhammad Rijal-Debby Susanto in the last eight and most likely take on second seeded Ahmad Tantowi-Liliyana Natsir of Indonesia in the last four.
Peng Soon-Liu Ying reached the semi-finals of the All England for the first time last year.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Kien Keat's interest in BWF delights Chin Chai

KOO Kien Keat is vying for a position in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Athletes' Commission later this month, a move which BA of Malaysia (BAM) secretary Ng Chin Chai believes will bring positive changes to the player's performance.
Kien Keat will be vying for one of three slots with seven others -- Cai Yun (China), Hans-Kristian Vittinghus (Denmark), Wang Xin (China), Imogen Bankier (Scotland), Kaveh Mehrabi (Iran), Greysia Polii (Indonesia) and Yuhan Tan (Belgium) -- with players who are in the main and qualifying draws of the German Open and All England eligible to vote.
Players ranked in the top 150 in the men's and women's singles, and doubles pairs ranked in the top 95 are also eligible to vote in the elections which will be held on Feb 26-27 in Mulheim and on March 5-6 in Birmingham.
The male and female players with the highest votes as well as the player with the third highest votes (of any gender) will join current members of the Commission -- Lee Yong Dae (South Korea), Emma Mason (Scotland), Rorigo Pacheco (Peru) and Pedro Yang of Guatamala.
The additional perk is that the chairman of the committee, to be selected on a later date, will have a seat in the BAM council.
"Kien Keat will be the first Malaysian to sit in the Athletes' Commission if he is elected and it is going to make him a more responsible player and also improve his discipline," said Chin Chai.
"He is going to represent his fellow players and he must lead from the front.
"Obviously, Kien Keat would be embarrassed if he doesn't do well in tournaments (with Tan Boon Heong) and I believe the position will make him produce better results on the international stage.
"I believe he is a good candidate and if he becomes a committee member, there will plenty of positive changes in him.
"It will be a bonus if he is elected as the chair as it grants him a chance to become a BWF council member and we can have a louder voice on the world stage."
The results of the Athletes' Commission election will be announced on May 7.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Tan-Lai mixed pair withdrawn from prestigious All-England

<B>Out of All-england:</B> Tan Aik Quan-Lai Pei Jing can only look forward to Austrian International Challenge in Vienna and the German Open Grand Prix Gold in MulheimOut of All-england: Tan Aik Quan-Lai Pei Jing can only look forward to Austrian International Challenge in Vienna and the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim
Given a choice, Malaysia’s second ranked mixed pair of Tan Aik Quan-Lai Pei Jing would rather play in the prestigious All-England than the insignificant Austrian International Challenge.
But the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have withdrawn their names from the All-England although they’ve qualified. The All-England will be held in Birmingham from March 5-10.
That leaves the world No. 26 pair to compete in two other tournaments – the Austrian International Challenge in Vienna from Feb 20-23 and the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim from Feb 26-March 3 in a bid to earn valuable ranking points.
The duo are bidding to qualify for the World Championships in Guangzhou in August.
A country can have a maximum of three pairs if all are ranked in the top 24 by the end of April. Currently, the top three pairs in the country are Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying (world No. 3), Aik Quan-Pei Jing (No. 26) and Ong Gian Guo-Lim Yin Loo (No. 28).
News about their omission came as a shock but a disappointed Pei Jing has decided to take it all in her stride.
In their absence, Malaysia will only be represented by Peng Soon-Liu Ying and Gian Gui-Yin Loo in the All-England.
“We were told yesterday (Thursday) that playing in three-back-to-back tournaments would be too much for us and we’ve been dropped from the All-England. We have to accept the decision,” said Pei Jing, who will leave for Vienna tomorrow.
“I was looking forward to the All-England, especially after Aik Quan and I did quite well to reach the quarter-finals in the Malaysian Open. It’s okay, we’ll prove ourselves in the Austria and German Opens.”
The German GP Gold will be a tougher test for them.
They are the top seeds in the Austrian Open, which is void of other Asians, and should nick the title.
In Mulheim, they’ve been drawn against fourth seeds Fran Kurniawan-Shendy Puspa Irawati of Indonesia in the first round.
“We beat this pair en route to reaching the Vietnam Open GP final last year. But, then, Fran wasn’t at his best because of an injury. They’re not an easy pair to beat ... we’ll be ready for a tough match,” said Pei Jing.
If they clear the first hurdle, they may meet South Koreans Lee Sang-joon-Kim So-young in the lower half of the draw. Pei Jing, who paired up with Aik Quan two years ago, said that the Malaysian Open breakthrough had given them the confidence to narrow the gap on current No. 1 Peng Soon-Liu Ying.
“We were struggling last year and couldn’t make much headway. In the Malaysian Open, though, we raised our level a notch higher and that was a relief,” said Pei Jing.
“Good training does not assure good achievements. One must have a strong mind and heart to handle the pressure in competitions. That’s an area Aik Quan and I are learning to deal with better.”
Courtesy of The Star

A title for confidence

PAULUS Firman's objective is to help men's doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong secure a super series title -- a feat they have failed to achieve over the last three years -- before the World Championships in Guangzhou in August.
Although Kien Keat-Boon Heong -- thanks to the BA of Malaysia (BAM) setting the final of the World Championships as their target -- do not have to win anything, Paulus knows nothing will happen in Guangzhou if the pair fail to make an impact in the Super Series.
Their confidence is shattered and Paulus said World No 2 Kien Keat-Boon Heong need a confidence booster in the Super Series if they are to stand a chance in the world meet.
Paulus, who began his job as the national men's doubles coach two weeks ago, has been specifically tasked with reviving Kien Keat-Boon Heong's career but with predecessors Rexy Mainaky and Pang Cheh Chang having failed, he knows he is in for a tough challenge.
Besides the All England on Mar 5-10, there are three other super series events -- India Open in April and the Indonesia and Singapore Opens in June -- before the World Championships.
"They have not won a super series title for a long time (2010 Malaysia Open) and my objective is to guide Kien Keat-Boon Heong to a title before the World Championships. "Winning in the super series will give them confidence and put their title challenge in the World Championships on the right track," said Paulus.
"The All England is just three weeks away and it will be a bit difficult for them to raise their level but there will be several other super series events after that which Kien Keat-Boon Heong can set their sights on.
"After the All England, they have three more events before the World Championships and if they can win one, their bid to win the world title will be stronger."
Kien Keat and Boon Heong began the year by reaching the semi-finals of the Korea Open but conceded a walkover to compatriots Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah in the second round of the Malaysia Open.
The seedings will not be a problem for Kien Keat-Boon Heong as they are still expected to remain in the top four but they need to improve their performance by leaps and bounds to even make the semi-finals of the World Championships.
They have been struggling against almost all the top eight pairs and this is something Paulus needs to find an answer for.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Daren wants better results

LIEW Daren, who has virtually qualified for the World Championships, is aiming to better his results in the All England and Swiss Open next month in order to break into the top eight. A top eight seeding should give Daren a favourable draw for the World Championships in August which means he will avoid heavyweights like World No 1 Lee Chong Wei, No 2 Chen Long and No 3 Du Pengyu, both from China, in the preliminary rounds in Guangzhou.
Daren, who reached the quarter-finals of the All England as a qualifier last year and also made the last eight of the Swiss Open, feels it will be tougher this time.
"I was almost an unknown last year. I had no pressure as I reached the last eight despite playing in the qualifying rounds but I am not a stranger anymore on the international scene," said Daren.
"However, the All England will be a crucial event for me as I must try to equal or better the results from last year and do the same in the Swiss Open.
"If I can do well, I have a good chance of improving my world ranking and hopefully make it into the top eight. This will help me get a seeding in the World Championships.
"If I am one of the top eight seeds, I don't have to worry about Chong Wei or the shuttlers from China in the preliminary rounds and this will increase my chances of reaching at least the last eight. "The All England will also be difficult because as a World No 12, I will not be seeded, so there is the possibility of meeting one of the top four players which means I must be well prepared.
"If I can achieve my target in the All England, my place in the Sudirman Cup will be secured as only two men's singles players will be named in the squad."
Chong Wei Feng is the other player who is in the running for a place in the World Championships and the Sudirman Cup but he needs to improve his current ranking of World No 17 by producing better results than Daren.
Wei Feng, who lost to Lin Dan of China in the third round last year, will also be aiming for a breakthrough in the All England.
The seedings for the All England will be released today where Chong Wei, men's doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and mixed doubles Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying are expected to be the only Malaysians seeded
Courtesy of New Straits Times

German Open: Clear route to title for Peng Soon-Liu Ying

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Chan Peng Soon (right) and Goh Liu Ying have a good chance for the German Open title as they are the only top five pair competing.
MIXED doubles Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying's priority is to make it to the final of the All England on March 5-10 but they have a very good chance of winning the warm-up  German Open on Feb 26-March 3, if the draw is any indication.
China's top pairs normally begin their European tour by competing in the German Open in Mulheim but have decided to skip the event this time and this has given the top seeded Peng Soon-Liu Ying a chance to secure their first title of the year.
They are the only top five pair to see action in the German Open and are expected to meet Poland's Robert Mateusiak-Naidedza Zieba, the World No 8, in the final.
Peng Soon-Liu Ying let slip a golden opportunity to become the first local pair in 50 years to win the Malaysia Open mixed doubles crown last month after losing the final to World No 4 Joachim Fischer Nielsen-Christinna Pedersen of Denmark and national mixed doubles coach Jeremy Gan expects them to make amends in the German Open.
Peng Soon-Liu Ying begin their campaign against a qualifying pair and should play Kim Ki Jung-Jung Kyung Eun of South Korea in the second round and are likely to meet Riky Widianto-Puspita Richi Dili of Indonesia in the last eight.
They are expected to play third seeds Danny Bawa Chrisnanta-Vanessa Neo of Singapore in the last four before a clash against Mateusiak-Nadiedza, who Peng Soon-Liu Ying defeated in the Malaysia Open, in the final.
"Peng Soon-Liu Ying have a very good chance to win the German Open. It will be a boost ahead of the All England if they can secure the title in Mulheim," said Jeremy.
"Their main objective is the All England where I have set a final target for them and they should get a good warm-up in the German Open.
"Based on the draw, their path looks clear until the final. Mateusiak-Nadiedza will be their main threats but having beaten them in the Malaysia Open, Peng Soon-Liu Ying should look forward to title.
"The All England has attracted all the top pairs and this is where Peng Soon-Liu Ying will be tested. It will be an achievement if they can make the final and a lot will depend on the luck of the draw."
In the men's singles, only the back-up players will be competing in the German Open where Misbun Ramdan Misbun will also make his first appearance as an independent player.
Ramdan plays a qualifier in the first round and his expected clash against Takuma Ueda of Japan will give some indication on how much he has gained training under his father Misbun since the Malaysia Open last month.
National back-up player Goh Soon Huat will also face an early test as he will play Chan Yan Kit of Hong Kong and victory will pit him against Tommy Sugiarto of Indonesia while Low Wei Sheng is expected to play China's rising star Gao Huan in the second round.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Ow-Chooi get chance to impress in Germany

Crunch time: Former world junior champions Ow Yao Han-Chooi Kah Ming must prove their worth and redeem their pride at the German Open Grand Prix Gold in MulheimCrunch time: Former world junior champions Ow Yao Han-Chooi Kah Ming must prove their worth and redeem their pride at the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim
Former world junior champions Ow Yao Han-Chooi Kah Ming have been presented with a chance to redeem their pride at the German Open Grand Prix Gold in Mulheim from Feb 26-March 3.
The duo suffered an embarrassing first round exit in the season opener – the Malaysian Open – last month.
In the draw released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) yesterday, the duo have been drawn to meet high-flying fifth seeds Vladimir Ivanov-Ivan Sozonov of Russia in the opening round in Mulheim.
If they get past the Russians, they may meet Denmark’s Rasmus Bonde-Mads Conrad-Petersen in the second round.
A tricky test awaits them in the quarter-finals as they may meet one of these pairs – Chris Langridge-Peter Mills of England, Indonesians Yonathan Suryatama Dasuki-Hendra Gunawan and fourth seeds Hirokatsu Hashimoto-Noriyasu Hirata of Japan.
It was Langridge-Mills who served them with a demoralising defeat in the first round of the Malaysian Open at the Putra Stadium last month.
National doubles chief coach Tan Kim Her hopes that the youngsters will make amends for their Malaysian Open flop with a strong showing in Germany.
“I’m not looking beyond the first round for Yao Han-Kah Ming in the German Open. The Russians are a tough nut to crack and winning the first match will make up for their dismal outing in the Malaysian Open,” said Kim Her.
Besides Yao Han-Kah Ming, the other Malaysian doubles pairs in the fray are professionals Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari and Gan Teik Chai-Ong Soon Hock, world No. 19 Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem, Nelson Heg Wei Keat-Teo Ee Yi, Chan Peng Soon-Ong Jian Guo and Tan Bin Shen, who’ll team up with Scotland’s Robert Blair.
KLRC’s Zakry-Fairuzizuan and Teik Chai-Soon Hock are also in the same top half as Yao Han-Kah Ming but the two professional pairs have a huge fight in their hands in the opening rounds.
Zakry-Fairuzizuan have been drawn to take on top seeds Lee Yong-dae-Ko Sung-hyun of South Korea in the opening round while Teik Chai-Soon Hock should meet seventh seeds Liu Xiaolong-Qiu Zihan in the second round.
The only Malaysian pair in the lower half are the unseeded Khim Wah-V Shem, who probably have the best chance to reach the final.
Their first real test will be in the quarter-finals against South Koreans Kim Sa-rang-Kim Ki-jung.
The third-seeded Koreans did well last year to upset several big names, including Malaysia’s Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong.
If Khim Wah-V Shem clear that hurdle, they may meet either second seeds Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa of Japan or Chai Biao-Hong Wei of China in the semi-finals.
The other three pairs – Wei Keat-Ee Yi, Peng Soon-Jian Guo and Bin Shen-Blair – will begin their campaign in the qualifying tournament.
In the mixed doubles, Peng Soon-Liu Ying have a good chance to win their first title of the year as long as they do not underestimate the lower ranked pairs – fifth seeds Riky Widianto-Puspita Richi of Indonesia, fourth seeds Fran Kurniawan-Shendy Puspa Irawati of Indonesia, third seeds Danny Bawa Chrisnanta-Vanessa Neo of Singapore and second seeds Robert Mateusiak-Nadiezda Zieba of Poland.
Courtesy of The Star

Rashid will keep door open but singles duo must impress


National singles chief coach Rashid Sidek will be keeping a close eye on independent shuttlers Zulfadli Zulkifli and Misbun Ramdan Misbun this year.
Zulfadli and Misbun are training with their professional clubs – KLRC and Nusa Mahsuri respectively – and are being groomed by their fathers.
Rashid said that he has not closed the door on independent shuttlers for major events, especially the Thomas Cup Finals.
But he stressed that these players must back-up their case for inclusion with creditable results.
There are four elite shuttlers and seven back-up players training under Rashid in the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). The four are Lee Chong Wei, Liew Daren, Chong Wei Feng and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.
The back-up players are Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin, Goh Soon Huat, Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub, Loh Wei Sheng, Goh Giap Chin, Tan Kian Meng and Choong Yee Han.
Rashid believes that independent shuttlers should be given an equal chance to prove themselves.
He should know, as he was at the height of his playing career when he was training under the Nusa Mahsuri banner from 1995 to 2000. During that period, he won the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games bronze medal, reigned as the world No. 1 briefly, reached the All-England final and won several Open tournaments.
“It all depends on the players. If they’re willing to go the extra mile, and not be too dependent on others, they should be able to produce good results. The same goes to all the other aspiring club players too,” said Rashid.
“Like others, I’m also interested in how Zulfadli and Ramdan are faring as they are players with potential.
“I’ll keep an eye on them. This will also ensure that our players in the BAM will not take their places for granted.”
The 22-year-old Ramdan, who left the BAM set-up last month, had done well under the guidance of Hendrawan and even won the Pahang Open and the National Grand Prix Finals.
Zulfadli, who has been on his own right from the start, became the country’s first world junior champion in 2010.
He has been trying to make his presence felt in the senior stage for the last two years but to no avail.
Zulfadli, who celebrated his 20th birthday on Monday, is hoping for a change of fortune this year.
“This year, my goal is to win either a Grand Prix or a Grand Prix Gold event. I also want to break into the top 50 and be ranked as high as possible,” said the world No. 66 Zulfadli.
“My progress was hampered by an ankle injury last year but I’m physically better now.
“I go to the NSI (National Sports Institute) gymnasium twice a week and jog three times a week. I need to be fitter to stand a chance in the fast-paced attacking singles game.
“I’m in the reserves’ list for the All-England (March 5-10). Otherwise, my next assignment will be the Swiss Open (March 12-17).”
World No. 87 Ramdan, meanwhile, will compete in the German Open from Feb 26-March 3.
Courtesy of The Star

Arif aims to shine in maiden All-England tourney

Elite men’s singles shuttler Mohd Arif Abdul Latif heads for his maiden All-England trip in Birmingham next month brimming with promise and hope.
Last year, the 23-year-old was dropped by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) for the All-England as punishment for his below-par performance in the Thomas Cup qualifying tournament.
Arif took the decision badly but never gave up.
The punishment had its desired effect as Arif stepped up his game to reach his first Super Series quarter-finals at the Hong Kong Open in October, where he defeated world No. 15 Hu Yun.
Then last week, Arif defeated world No. 19 Wong Wing Ki in the decider to give the Malaysian Tigers Badminton Club a superb 3-2 victory over the Jaya Raya Suryanaga team in the semi-finals of the Indonesian Super League.
His performances caught the eyes of his coaches and now he is even hoping to challenge compatriots Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng for a spot in the World Championships in Guangzhou, China, in August.
Arif is currently in 35th spot – behind Lee Chong Wei (world No. 1), Daren (No. 12) and Wei Feng (No. 18).
A country can have a maximum of three players if all are ranked in the top 24.
“I’m not the type to give up easily. I was banned last year but now I get to play in the All-England for the first time. I’ll begin from the qualifying rounds but I’m hopeful of a good start,” said Arif.
The All-England will be held from March 5-10.
He has also been named for the Swiss Open (March 12-17) and is being considered for the Australian Open Grand Prix Gold (April 2-7) and India Open (April 23-28).
“I have until the end of April to improve my world ranking and fight for a spot in the world meet. My coach (Hendrawan) said that if I can play consistently in the next few tournaments, I can climb up the ladder. I know that only three players will make the cut but I’m not throwing in the towel just yet,” said Arif.
“I hope to make the top 15 by the end of this year. I’m determined to make this year the best in my career.
“I also want to be in the team for next year’s Thomas Cup Finals. I intend to take my game to greater heights and have set a personal target of winning a couple of titles this year. Daren and Wei Feng did well last year ... now it’s my turn to step it up.”
Last year, Daren won the French Open while Wei Feng reached his first Super Series semi-finals at the China Open.
With Arif now ready to do better than Daren and Wei Feng, a keen three-way rivalry is taking shape in the men’s singles department.
Courtesy of The Star

Year of the Snake duo eye spots in World Championships

<b>Confident:</b> Men’s doubles pair Goh V Shem (right) and Lim Khim Wah are hoping that their partnership will be even more successful in the Year of the Snake.Confident: Men’s doubles pair Goh V Shem (right) and Lim Khim Wah are hoping that their partnership will be even more successful in the Year of the Snake.
Men’s doubles partner Lim Khim Wah and Goh V Shem were born in the Year of the Snake and enjoyed quite a fruitful time in the just-ended Year of the Dragon.
But now that the Year of the Snake is back, the duo are hoping that their partnership will be even more successful.
The 23-year-olds did not drop a single game in all their six wins as they inspired the Malaysian Tigers Badminton Club to reach the final of the Indonesian Super League on Saturday.
The duo also put up a creditable show to reach the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the Korean and Malaysian Opens last month.
This clearly shows that their partnership is well and truly back on track after they had gone separate ways for six months last year.
And now, the duo are determined to confirm their tickets for the World Championships in Guangzhou, China, by continuing with their good show in the German Open (Feb 26-March 3), All-England (March 5-10) and Swiss Open (March 12-17).
The world No. 19 pair know that no one can deny them a place in the world meet if they perform consistently in the three-back-to-back tournaments.
A country can have a maximum of three pairs if all are ranked within the top 24 by the end of April.
Besides Khim Wah-V Shem, there are four others in the bracket – Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong (No. 2), Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong (No. 9), Gan Teik Chai-Ong Soon Hock (No. 22) and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (No. 23).
Khim Wah is happy with the way things are shaping up.
“V Shem and I were born in the Year of the Snake and, so far, everything is falling into place for us. We are playing with more confidence,” said Khim Wah, who was extremely pleased with their flawless outing in Indonesia.
“We won all our matches. Although our opponents were not that strong, we didn’t let the pressure get to us. There were several occasions when we had to save the tie as the second doubles pair and we pulled it off. The team unity was good.”
Although they have a good chance to qualify for the world meet, Khim Wah said they won’t take it easy.
“We’ve been entered for three back-to-back tournaments and we’re serious about qualifying for the world meet. Anything can happen in the three outings, so we’re not taking any chances,” he said.
“I’ve competed in the world meet once (at Wembley in 2011) with Chan Peng Soon. We did not qualify on merit but were the first reserves and got in when others withdrew.”
Having won a title with Peng Soon in 2009, Khim Wah is hoping to bag one with V Shem too. And if they do, it will not only assure them of a ticket to the world meet but also break into the top 15 in the world for the first time.
Courtesy opf The Star

Daren happy with his exploits in Indonesia

A confidence boost. Invaluable experience. And also an injury.
That’s what national men’s singles shuttler Liew Daren picked up from the the Indonesian Super League, which ended in Jakarta yesterday.
The Malaysian Tigers Badminton Club, led by Daren, defied the odds to reach the final before going down fighting 2-3 to Musica Champion.
The Malaysians had, on Friday, beaten a strong Jaya Raya Suryanaga team, led by Sony Dwi Kuncoro, 3-2.
Daren credited his team for their fighting displays.
“We were drawn in a very intimidating group but did well to reach the final. We fought confidently and gave all the teams a run for their money. We won three ties in Group B to make the semi-finals,” said the 25-year-old Daren.
“Overall, the league was good. There were so many supporters every day and that lent a lively atmosphere to the proceedings. The Indonesian fans really love the game.”
The others in the team – seen as the side for future Thomas Cup Finals – were Chong Wei Feng, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, Goh Soon Huat, Hoon Tien How-Tan Wee Kiong, Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem and Mohd Lutfi Zaim Abdul Khalid-Teo Kok Siang.
Daren said that he had learnt a lot as the team’s first singles player and cherishes his first-ever win over Lee Chong Wei against Musica Champion in the Group B tie last Sunday.
World No. 1 Chong Wei was the special guest of former world champion Hariyanto Arbi’s club – Musica Champion – but Daren pulled off a stunning 23-21, 21-14 win.
The Malaysian Tigers Badminton Club went on to beat the more fancied club 3-2, thanks to two more points from the doubles pairs Thien How-Wee Kiong and Khim Wah-V Shem.
“It was my first win over Chong Wei and I’m naturally really happy. I think Chong Wei was a bit relaxed at the start of the match and I took advantage of that. I grew more confident as the game progressed,” he said.
“I don’t think Chong Wei held back as he would have picked up a lot of money had he won ((Chong Wei was promised US$30,000 for a win by the club).
“But I don’t think Chong Wei will let me off the hook so easily next time.”
The only blot for Daren in the league was the foot injury he picked up en route to losing 21-17, 14-21, 9-21 to Kenichi Tago of the SGS PLN club in a Group B tie on Thursday.
He is keeping his fingers crossed that it won’t affect his preparations for the All-England from March 5-10.
“The sole of my foot hurt during the match against Tago and it affected my performance after that,” said Daren, who went on to lose 11-21, 13-21 to Sony in the semi-finals.
In yesterday’s final, Daren put up a spirited display before going down 21-11, 14-21, 16-21 to Tommy Sugiarto in one hour and 21 minutes.
“Hopefully, it’s not a serious injury. I have a three-day break for the Chinese New Year celebration. Hopefully, my foot will be all right when training resumes.
“I hope this injury will not hamper my preparation for the All-England,” said Daren, who reached the quarter-finals of the All-England last year.
Courtesy of The Star

Monday, February 4, 2013

Remembering Legendary All England Winner Eddy Choong

“My aim was always to set a benchmark for others to meet. If we were to gauge our progress it is through surpassing our forefathers.”
This visionary insight from Malaysian and world badminton legend, Datuk Eddy Choong, highlights what motivated and drove him throughout a stellar career – the pinnacle of which was his four-year vice grip on the All England Men’s Singles title (1953, 1954, 1956 and 1957).
The 82-year-old, who passed away yesterday afternoon in his homeland, was revered in the badminton world for his amazing string of success both as a singles and doubles player; teaming up with his brother David in the latter pursuit. In total, Choong counted 450 titles; 75 international championships in 14 countries. He was also a member of Malaysia’s triumphant Thomas Cup squad in 1955.
This famed son of Penang was part of the Asian wave in the 1950s that transformed badminton which was previously a European-dominated sport. Standing just five feet, four inches, he literally looked up to many rivals – on court however it was a totally different story.
In fact, his diminutive stature proved an advantage; his lightning speed and famous jump-smashes combining to be the undoing of countless opponents. Never resting on his laurels, the ambitious Choong was known to train tirelessly as well as research equipment and techniques that could improve his game. His dedication to this regime was likely among the reasons he enjoyed such longevity as a shuttler, winning the All England Veterans Men’s Doubles title at age 53.
In recognition of his exemplary achievements and outstanding contribution to badminton, the International Badminton Federation (IBF) – the forerunner to the Badminton World Fedration (BWF) – introduced the “Eddy Choong Player of the Year” award. In 2008, BWF changed the award to the “Eddy Choong Most Promising Player of the Year”.
Choong leaves behind his widow Datin Maggie Choong, four sons and five grandchildren. His remains will be cremated on Friday.
The BWF extends condolences to his family and wide circle of friends throughout the badminton community.
*****
PHOTOS:
BADMINTON'S BEST: Datuk Eddy Choong (left) is pictured in his heyday. At right, Choong is honoured by the International Badminton Federation (IBF) with the Herbert Scheele Award for Outstandingly Exceptional Services. Presenting the award was then IBF President, Madame Lu Shengrong of China.
* Photo at left compliments the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) Sports Museum & Hall of Fame

Djarum Superliga Indonesia: Daren upsets Chong Wei

LIEW Daren’s stunning win over senior compatriot Lee Chong Wei helped Malaysia Tigers to secure a 3-2 victory over Musica Champion to keep their semi-final target on track in the Djarum Superliga Indonesia in Surabaya yesterday.
Daren notched a 23-21, 21-14 win, his maiden success, over Chong Wei to give the Tigers a confident start while Hoon Thin How-Tan Wee Kiong made it 2-0 with a 21-14, 15-21, 21-18 win over Rian Sukmawan-Rendra Wijaya in the first doubles.
Musica Champion survived when Tommy Sugiarto defeated Chong Wei Feng 21-15, 24-22 but Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah registered a 21-16, 21-14 win over Sigit Budiarto-Fran Kurniawan to give Tigers an unassailable 3-1 lead.
Arif Latif lost 21-16, 21-10 to South Korean player Lee Hyun Il but it didn't matter as Tigers earned a crucial win.
National singles coach Rashid Sidek said the win will give the Tigers, particularly Daren, confidence as the team is built for the future.
“Our target is to reach the semis and it is distinctively possible after beating Musica Champion 3-2. It is a fine win for Daren over Chong Wei and this will give him a lot of confidence as a team leader,” said Rashid.
“Despite playing against Chong Wei and without Kien Keat-Boon Heong it is tough but this is basically our future squad for the team events especially the Thomas Cup. They will have to start challenging others without depending on their seniors.
“And The Djarum Superliga is a good platform for them to gain exposure. Most of the players will be part of the 2014 and 2016 Thomas Cup squads and they must learn to cope with the pressure and responsibility.”
Malaysia Tigers are in Group B with Jaya Raya Jakarta, Musica Champion and Tonami Badminton Club from Japan, SGS PLN led by Taufik Hidayat  with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals.
Tigers, who have a rest day today, will play Tonami tomorrow while Chong Wei will clash with rival Taufik in the match against SGS PLN before returning home today.
The Malaysian women's team lost to Japan's Unisys Badminton Club 3-2 in their opening Group X match yesterday.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

Playing it safe this time

TAN Kim Her, who received  much  flak for the failure of the back-up pairs to qualify for the 2011 World Championships, has made early plans to ensure three national men's  pairs make the cut on merit for the major event this year.Professionals Gan Teik Chai-Tan Bin Shen were left disappointed when the BA of Malaysia (BAM) opted for Zakry Latif-Hoon Thien How, who were ranked lower, to join Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong for the tournament in London.
The incident put the national team in bad light and Kim Her, in particular, was under pressure as none of his back-up pairs managed to make it to the top 24 to earn automatic qualification.
Kim Her, the chief doubles coach, does not want this to happen again. Kien Keat-Boon Heong, ranked World No 2, will have Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong, ranked World No 10, for company at the World Championships in Guangzhou on Aug 4-11.
Another national pair, Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah, ranked No 19, are in a strong position to claim the third slot but with Teik Chai-Ong Soon Hock (22), and Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari (23), are also involved in the race.
Kim Her is not leaving anything to chance. V Shem-Khim Wah will be competing in the German Open (Feb 26-March 3) and All England (March 5-10) and should they reach the quarter-finals in both tournaments, they should consolidate their position and claim the third slot.
"I did receive some criticism for the failure of the back-up pairs to qualify but this time, I have planned carefully so that three national pairs qualify for the World Championships on merit," said Kim Her.
"Kien Keat-Boon Heong and Thien How-Wee Kiong's places are secure but V Shem-Khim Wah need strong results in the European tournaments. They must at least reach the quarter-finals in the German Open and All England which will put them in a favourable position.
"They are also entered for the Swiss Open (March 12-17) but if they do well in the first two events, they may not have to play there. They are also down to play in the Australia, New Zealand and India Opens in April as I don't want to take any chances.
"The independent pairs will also get their opportunity if they perform better and the national pairs must really push for quality results in the coming tournaments to be considered for the World Championships."
V Shem-Khim Wah, who resumed their partnership in January after a six-month split, reached the last eight of the Korea Open super series premier and the semi-finals of the Malaysia Open.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

What’s all the fuss about Lin Dan?

Level-headed champion: Lee Chong Wei said he would never take any tournament, or opponent, lightly.Level-headed champion: Lee Chong Wei said he would never take any tournament, or opponent, lightly.
World No. 1 Lee Chong Wei is in no mood to find out the reasons behind Lin Dan’s continued absence from the international scene.
He’d rather let sleeping dogs lie.
The China ace has not taken part in any tournament since defeating Chong Wei in the men’s singles final of the London Olympic Games in August.
“I have no comment on this matter. He must have his own reasons for skipping the tournaments. I’d rather stay focused on my own game,” Chong Wei said after a training session at Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara yesterday.
Two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan’s name was removed from the list just before the closing date for the All-England ended on Thursday – sparking a series of rumours, including being ill-prepared and souring his relationship with the China BA.
The All-England, the oldest badminton tournament, will be held from March 5-10 in Birmingham.
It will still boast a strong field, including Lin Dan’s younger team-mates – Chen Long, Du Pengyu, Chen Jin, Wang Zhengming, Gao Huan and Chen Yuekun.
Asked if it would be easier for him to win his third All-England title without Lin Dan in the fray, Chong Wei said that he would never take any tournament, or opponent, lightly.
“There’ll be other regulars – players I am familiar with. It’s important to be ready against anyone at any time,” said Chong Wei, who won the All-England titles in 2010 and 2011.
In the 100th edition of the All-England in 2010, he defeated a stubborn Kenichi Tago of Japan in the final. In 2011, he showed his class with a straight-game win over Lin Dan in the final to prove that he can beat his nemesis in a major tournament.
The 30-year-old Chong Wei agreed that expectations would be higher on him to win the All-England title, especially after bagging the season’s first two tournaments – Korean Open and Malaysian Open.
“I didn’t feel my age during those two tournaments. I felt like a 26-year-old. I’m looking forward to another good year,” he quipped.
Chong Wei, however, promised not to rest on his laurels.
“I am flying off to Jakarta tomorrow (today). I’ll play two matches – on Sunday and Monday. I’ll be back home on Tuesday. I don’t want to overstrain myself,” said Chong Wei, who will play for the Musica Champion club owned by former world champion Hariyanto Arbi.
“I’ve been given five days’ break for Chinese New Year. But I’ll get down to doing some light training after just two days. I can already picture all the good food. I don’t want to gain weight.
“This year, I’ll celebrate Chinese New Year with my wife (Wong Mew Choo) here in Kuala Lumpur.
“Yes, it will be different as I’ll be celebrating it as a husband and a father-to-be.
“And, I’ll also have to give out ang pows for the first time,” added Chong Wei with a hearty laugh.
Chong Wei and Mew Choo are expecting their first child in May.
Courtesy of The Star

Lee: Indonesian stint good preparation for team events

There is a saying that “no man is an island”.
And world No. 1 men’s singles shuttler Lee Chong Wei is hoping that the participation of his younger compatriots in the Indonesia Super League, starting tomorrow, will teach them to be good team players.
Chong Wei and 20 other national players – 10 men and 10 women – left for Jakarta today to compete in the league.
The 30-year-old Chong Wei is hoping that the outing would strengthen Malaysia’s team morale, spirit and unity ahead of the Sudirman Cup, which will be held at the Putra Stadium from May 19-26, and next year’s Thomas Cup, which Malaysia last won in 1992.
Chong Wei is the star attraction of the Musica Champion’s club while the others will play under the Malaysia Tigers Badminton Club baner in the six-day competition.
The 10 players in the men’s team are Liew Daren, Chong Wei Feng, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, Goh Soon Huat, Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong, Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem, Mohd Lutfi Zaim Abdul Khalid-Teo Kok Siang.
The women’s team consist of Tee Jing Yi, Lydia Cheah, Sonia Cheah, Yang Li Lian, Amelia Anscelly-Soong Fie Choo, Marylen Ng Poau Leng-Shevon Lai Jemie, Vivian Hoo-Erica Khoo Pei Shan.
The format is similar to the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup where a tie is decided over five matches – three singles and two doubles.
“It’s great that I’m not the only one to play in this league. They have allowed Malaysia to send two teams – men’s and women’s.
“All 20 of them are our next echelon of players and this is a great platform for them to have a feel of a team event,” said Chong Wei.
“The Indonesia Super League is of high quality. I’ve played there before.
“This time they’ve invited many other top foreign players, including Kenichi Tago (Japan), Lee Hyun-il (South Korea) and Nguyen Tien Minh (Vietnam).
“Our youngsters should use this platform as preparation for the Sudirman Cup and Thomas Cup.
“This is one of the best places to learn.”
The other top names include Boonsak Ponsana of Thailand, Wong Wing Ki of Hong Kong. Two clubs – Tonami and Unisys – are represented by Japan’s men’s shuttlers.
In the women’s competition, Djarum probably will be the strongest as they have Germany’s Juliane Schenk and reigning Malaysian Open champion Tai Tzu-ying in their ranks.
Two clubs – Renesas and Unisys – are represented by Japanese shuttlers while Korean Ginseng will be powered by Bae Sung-jee.
“The league in Indonesia is popular and draws top names because it offers good money. I will be playing for Musica in only two matches this season. They offer US$30,000 per win,” said Chong Wei, who’ll be facing Daren in his first match.
Chong Wei, who will also play in this year’s China League in September, has decided not to compete in the inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL) in June and may skip the Axiata Cup so as to focus on the World Championships in Guangzhou in August.
For the record, the team will be accompanied by singles and doubles coaches Hendrawan and Paulus Firman.
The grouping
MEN
Group A: Jaya Raya, Musica Champion, SGS PLN, Tonami Badminton, Malaysia Tigers Badminton. Group B: Jaya Raya Suryanaga, Mutiara Bandung, Djarum. Tangkas Specs, Unisys Badminton.
WOMEN
Group A: Jaya Raya, Mutiara Bandung, Unisys Badminton, Malaysia Tigers Badminton. Group B: Jaya Raya Suryanaga, Djarum, Korean Ginseng Corporation, Renesas Badminton.
Courtesy of The Star

Paulus believes he can get Kien Keat-Boon Heong firing again

REVIVING Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong's career is not newly-appointed national doubles coach Paulus Firman's only goal as he also wants to turn back-up pair Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong into a world class combination.
Paulus believes Kien Keat-Boon Heong have sufficient time to be ready to battle for the world crown in Guangzhou in August and with commitment and quality input in training, the former Indonesian coach expects the senior pair to regain their form.
"I have spoken to Kien Keat-Boon Heong and will come up with a programme to assist them to battle for the world title. The BA of Malaysia (BAM) has set them a target of reaching the final and it can be achieved if they show commitment and undergo quality training," said Paulus.
"They have been a top pair before and it is not beyond their ability to recapture their old form. They have about five to six months before the World Championships but they must ensure they put in sufficient effort to achieve their target.
"What I need to do now is get to the core of their problems and put them on the right track again. There is plenty to do but I feel they can hit the top again by ironing out their weaknesses."
Kien Keat-Boon Heong, however, will not take up all of Paulus' time.
"I will also focus on Thien How-Wee Kiong as having two quality pairs will work in Malaysia's favour in going for the doubles title in Guangzhou.
"Besides Ko Sung Hyun-Lee Yong Dae, South Korea also have two strong back-up pairs to complement them. Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng (of China) also have good back-ups which makes it easier to target the World Championships.
"It is a little difficult having only one world class pair and Kien Keat-Boon Heong will benefit if Thien How-Wee Kiong and maybe Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah raise their levels."
The All England is other target set for Kien Keat-Boon Heong but with just five weeks left for the tournament, Paulus feels time may not be on their side to achieve success in Birmiangham where all the top pairs will be competing.
While the World Championships will be the prime focus for Kien Kien Keat-Boon Heong, Paulus will be working on different targets for Thien How-Wee Kiong to take them to the next level.
"Thien How's obvious weakness is his physical condition and he must overcome the fitness issues while Wee Kiong has to emphasise more on his skills and tactical game," added Paulus.
"They must win a grand prix gold title this year as that will give them confidence to play like a top 10 pair and also keep improving their performance."
Paulus will be using next two weeks to get insights on the issues ailing Kien Keat-Boon Heong and Thien How-Wee Kiong before coming up with specific programmes, which are set to start after the Chinese New Year festivities.
Courtesy of New Straits Times

China's Lin Dan conspicuously missing from All-England

Badminton fans will have to wait a little longer for the return of two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan.
The megastar of China broke his fans’ hearts when his name was conspicuously missing from the All-England Premier Super Series from March 5-10 despite being listed earlier.
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) yesterday released the entry list for the All-England but China only confirmed the presence of Chen Long, Du Pengyu, Chen Jin, Wang Zhengming, Gao Huan and Chen Yuekun for the oldest tournament in the circuit.
No reasons were given for Lin Dan’s omission.
However, Lin Dan will not be penalised for his latest withdrawal. The four-time world champion has dropped to 14th in the world rankings after missing all the Open tournaments since beating Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei in the final of the London Olympic Games in August.
The BWF had made it compulsory only for the top 10 players in the world to compete in the Premier Super Series event and Lin Dan need not pay US$5,000 fine because he is now well outside the bracket.
The absence of the five-time All-England champion however does not guarantee world No. 1 and top seed Chong Wei a smooth passage to a third All-England title. He will have to be wary of China’s armada, led by second seed Chen Long.
In the men’s doubles, Denmark’s Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen and Malaysia’s Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong are the top two seeds.
They will, however, be strongly challenged by reigning Olympic champions Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng of China, South Koreans Lee Yong-dae-Ko Sung-hyun and reigning Malaysian Open champions Hendra Setiawan-Mohd Ahsan.
In the mixed doubles, third seeds Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying face a rough ride as well. The top two pairs – Xu Chen-Ma Jin of China and Tantowi Ahmad-Lilyana Natsir of Indonesia – are making a return after skipping the Malaysian Open.
Courtesy of The Star

Friday, February 1, 2013

The game’s one big bore without Lin Dan

Without the maverick Lin Dan, the world of badminton is one big bore.
Former international Razif Sidek believes so and can’t wait to see the Chinese shuttler get back to the international circuit soon.
The 29-year-old Lin Dan has not taken part in any Open tournaments since defending his men’s singles gold medal at the London Olympic Games in August. The only time the four-time world champion showed his face was at an invitation event – the Copenhagen Masters – in Denmark in December.
“I hope that Lin Dan will return to action soon. The men’s singles event in the last two Opens – in South Korea and Malaysia – was a bore. There were not many interesting matches and Lee Chong Wei was hardly tested by the opponents in both finals,” lamented Razif.
Chong Wei defended both titles in style. At the Korean Open, he outclassed Du Pengyu of China in the final. He then went on to whip Sony Dwi Kuncoro of Indonesia to nail the Malaysian Open for a record ninth title.
Razif said there were more quality matches in the women’s singles.
“I enjoyed the women’s singles matches at the Korean and Malaysian Opens. India, Taiwan and Indonesia have new young stars who are able to give quality performances against the Chinese players,” he added.
To illustrate his point, he said China were no longer dominant as was evident with the two new winners at the Korean and Malaysian Opens.
At the Korean Open, Sung Ji-hyun of South Korea was the champion. Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan then stole the show with her first Super Series title at the Malaysian Open.
Razif is keeping his fingers crossed that Lin Dan will make a return to the All-England in Birmingham from March 5-10 to revive the interest and excitement in the men’s singles again.
“We need more depth in the men’s singles. Sometimes, the matches are so one-sided. Hopefully, we will see more men with colourful characters and styles to spice up the competition,” said Razif.
He added that men’s singles was at its height when five players – Chong Wei, Lin Dan, Peter-Gade Christensen of Denmark, Taufik Hidayat of Indonesia and Lee Hyun-il of South Korea – were at the peak of their powers.
The men’s doubles action, however, caught Razif’s eye.
“There are several new pairs now. And they have retained the same level of quality despite the absence of a few old pairs like Olympic champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan and Lee Yong-dae-Chung Jae-sung.
“Malaysian Open champions Hendra and his new young partner (Mohd Ahsan) showed that they are a new pair to watch out for. Yong-dae and his new partner (Ko Sung-hyun) won at the Korean Open. And together with several other regulars like Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng of China and Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen, the fans can still get their money’s worth,” said Razif.
Courtesy of The Star