Veterans backbone of RI's badminton team

JAKARTA (JP): There were no surprises yesterday when Indonesia named veterans to spearhead its teams for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup finals from May 15 to May 24 in Hong Kong.

With the country's new generation of players still unable to impress, the Badminton Association of Indonesia had no choice but to recall the likes of Hariyanto Arbi, Joko Suprianto and Susi Susanti who, despite their illustrious experience, are clearly in the twilight of their careers.

And as if to add insult to injury, former world men's singles champion Hariyanto will depart for Hong Kong under the watchful eyes of the team doctors. The world No. 7 has just left hospital after receiving treatment for a low potassium level, which caused him extreme exhaustion.

Association deputy chairman Agus Wirahadikusumah said on announcing the team lineup that Hariyanto was ready to play and there was nothing to worry about.

"We have asked a hospital in Hong Kong to undertake medical checks on Hariyanto as soon as he finishes every game," said Agus, also the team manager.

"Sickness and exhaustion after months of intensive exercise are normal," he added.

He said his squad would be at its best form for the championships. But to anticipate injuries, the national team is taking masseurs, physiotherapists and medicine.

The 1993 world champion Joko will serve as the reserve singles due to his career ranking of only 26, the worst among those selected, which also include juniors Hendrawan, Indra Wijaya and Marlev Mainaky.

In the men's doubles, Indonesia will bank on world champions Sigit Budiarto and Chandra Wijaya and Olympic gold medalists Rexy Mainaky and Ricky Subagja. Tony Gunawan was named the reserve.

Agus defended the inclusion of Joko who at 31 years old is the oldest player in the team.

"The lineup is the result of a long selection process since January. We picked them not only on their world rankings, but their great experience in team events, personality and discipline," Agus said.

Agus said that Joko had played effectively and shown strong discipline during practice.

In the women's competition, Indonesia's Barcelona Olympics gold medalist Susi will again team up with Atlanta Olympics silver medalist Mia Audina. The remaining three singles places went to newcomers.

Agus also said the association had offered cash rewards totaling Rp 1.5 billion (US$187,500) for the players if they manage to retain both the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup. The rewards will be less if only one cup is retained.

The teams will pay a courtesy call on President Soeharto prior to their departure on May 11. (emf)