RI shuttlers upbeat at China's absence

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian junior shuttlers are optimistic of being able to grab the Junior Asian Badminton Championship title in Taipei given the absence of badminton powerhouse China.

"The motivation of the shuttlers has been boosted knowing that China has decided not to come here. We hope to grab the title this year," team manager Joko Suprianto told The Jakarta Post from Taipei by phone.

"On the other hand, China's absence reduces the competition here. However, our players will do their best."

Joko, who is also the junior singles' coach, said no official information on China's absence was available but he was sure it was related to political issues concerning relations between China and Taipei.

Indonesia was last year's runner up in the team event while shuttler Sony Dwi Kuncoro reached the individual boys' singles final.

On Sunday, both boys' and girls' teams cruised to the next stage at the event, which is copying the feature of the Thomas and Uber Cups of three singles and two doubles in the team.

The boys' team received a walk-over victory as Macau failed to show up.

"I don't know why Macau didn't show up at 9 a.m. (8 a.m. Jakarta time) as scheduled. There was not any official statement on that. On Monday, we will face the Japanese team also at 9 a.m.," said Joko.

"I don't want to take any risks and will field our strongest team especially in the singles. Japanese shuttlers will pose a threat if we are not careful."

Sony, Ardiansyah and Markis Kido will compete in the singles against the Japanese.

"But I must find the right combination for the boys' doubles since none of the players are joining the Indonesian Badminton Center," Joko said.

PBSI brings Titon Gustaman and Rian Sukmawan of West Java; Hendra Setiawan and Joko Riyadi of Jaya Raya; and Gordon Ruben and Devin Lahardi of Djarum Kudus for the boys' doubles.

Indonesian girls easily defeated Sri Lanka 3-0 to meet Malaysia later in the afternoon.

Singles Silvi Antarini barely sweated to win 11-1, 11-0 and Dewi Tira also won easily 11-1, 11-1. In the doubles, Monica and Devi Sukma crushed their opponents 15-1, 15-1. (nvn)