PETALING JAYA: National junior head coach Jeffer Rosobin is optimistic of Malaysia’s chances in the mixed team event of the Asian Junior Championships from June 28-July 2 in Yogyakarta, thanks to the favourable draw.
In the draw released yesterday, Malaysia were placed in Group B along with Macau, Kazakhstan and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The top two teams will progress to the quarter-finals.
Jeffer, who is set for his most important assignment since he was appointed by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) last November, was pleased with the draw.
“It’s quite a good draw. The players need to stay focused to get the best possible result,” said Jeffer.
“Our preparations for this tournament so far has been good, so hopefully everything goes smoothly.”
Malaysia’s challenge will be led by junior world No. 1 boys’ doubles pair Aaron Tai-Khang Khai Xing and national Under-18 champions Roslie Razeeq Daniel (boys’ singles) and Ong Xin Yee (girls’ singles).
The others selected in the team are Mohd Faiq Masawi, Sng Wei Ming, Kong Zhou Swin (boys’ singles), Siti Zulaikha Azmi, Oo Shan Zi, Dania Sofea Zaidi (girls’ singles), Carmen Ting, Clarissa San, Tan Zhing Hui, Nicole Chau, Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan (girls’ doubles), Lok Hong Quan, Justin Goh, Datu Anif Datu Asrah (mixed doubles).
Dania, Clarissa and Noraqilah will also play in the mixed doubles.
Jeffer will be hoping to help end Malaysia’s wait for a medal in the team event.
The team last stood on the podium in the 2018 edition in Jakarta when the team came away with bronze.
The tournament was not held from 2020 to 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
After the team competition, the players will turn their attention to the individual event from July 3-7.
