RI shuttlers upbeat at China's absence

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)