Thomas Cup: Malaysia get Germany, South Korea and India

PASIR GUDANG: Malaysia’s strength as a team may have been diluted but there is still a good chance for them to reach at least the quarter-finals of the Thomas Cup Finals in New Delhi from May 18-25.

This is Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) secretary Ng Chin Chai’s assessment after the draw for the prestigious team event was released on Sunday.

Malaysia have been drawn in Group C with South Korea, Germany and India.

Malaysia have not finalised their team but Lee Chong Wei, Chong Wei Feng, Liew Daren, Goh Soon Huat, Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong, Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem, Tan Boon Heong and, most likely, his partner Ow Yao Han are set to make the trip.

Chin Chai said that Malaysia could top Group C by riding on the strength of the ever-dependable Chong Wei and two doubles pairs, although they have been inconsistent of late.

“I’m quite confident that we can enter the quarter-finals. In fact, based on team strength in our group, we have a chance to be group champions,” said Chin Chai.

“South Korea will be without two of their top doubles players (Lee Yong-dae and Kim Ki-jung). I think our top singles players – Chong Wei and Wei Feng are more superior than Shon Wan-ho and Lee Dong-keun.”

Yong-dae and Ki-jung, who partnered Ko Sung-hyun and Kim Sa-rang respectively, are serving one-year bans for their no-show during a doping test.

Although Malaysia went down to a shocking defeat to Germany in the Sudirman Cup last year, Chin Chai believes than Chong Wei and Co are stronger than the European team in the men’s team event.

“The Sudirman Cup is different because it’s a mixed team event. In the men’s team, I think we have better depth compared to the Germans,” said Chin Chai.

“India’s men’s singles players have improved but we can still take one point through Chong Wei. Our men’s doubles are better and should take two points.”

Chin Chai said that it was important for Malaysia to become group champions in order to avoid other seeded teams – like defending champions China or the much-improved Indonesia.

“The top two teams will advance to the knockout stage where a fresh draw will be made but the top four seeded teams will be in different quarters,” he said.

“It is best that we become group champions and avoid the seeded teams in the quarter-finals. If everything goes well, I believe we can even make it to the semis.”

Malaysia were beaten 3-0 by China in the quarter-finals two years ago in Wuhan. Then, Chong Wei did not play against China after injuring his ankle while playing against Peter-Gade Christensen during a group tie against Denmark.

In the Uber Cup Finals, Malaysia’s women’s team are in Group D with Japan, Denmark and Germany and it will be a tall order for them to make the top eight as one of the top two teams from the group.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/30/Thomas-Cup-Malaysia-draw-Germany-South-Korea-and-India/

Fight opponents, not each other

PASIR GUDANG: Everyone knows that Malaysian badminton is searching for the next Lee Chong Wei.
With that in mind, it is harder to accept that none of our back-up men’s singles shuttlers at the Malaysia Open Grand Prix Gold, which ended on Sunday, came close to showing they can step into his big shoes one day.
Without any top guns in the fray except for Chong Wei Feng, who unfortunately had to withdraw because of a back injury, the GP Gold was an ideal platform for the future stars and second stringers to shine.
But Badminton Association of Malaysia’s (BAM) Goh Soon Huat, Soo Teck Zhi, Goh Giap Chin, Nur Mohd Azriyn and Chong Yee Han all failed to give the impression that the search for Chong Wei’s successor would end soon.
Two others – Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin and Soong Joo Ven - did not compete due to injuries while several others, including Tan Kian Meng and Cheam June Wei, took part in the Vietnam International Challenge – without much success too.
BAM have asked for time to strengthen their programme. The players have asked for time to prove themselves. The coaches have asked for time to rebuild the players.
The question is what are they doing with all this time and are any of their actions bearing fruit?
To get the best players into the national team, we need solid players to come through the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) and the state programmes.
Have BAM placed the best coaches in BJSS and the states? Who is monitoring these coaches? It should be a full-time national coaching director or a development director and not council members or a working committee, which only meets periodically.
Sadly, we do not have a supremo and some administrators have even taken it upon themselves to coach the players – to the extent of teaching them how to serve even!
For the last two years, BJSS have failed in producing world junior badminton players – a tradition that they had held proudly for some time. Do not be surprised if these juniors come back empty-handed from this year’s edition in Alor Setar this month.
One theory for this decline is that BJSS players are not training full-time.
In countries like China, Thailand, South Korea and Indonesia, their juniors are in a centralised camp all the time. If these juniors fail to get it right in badminton, they’re given the opportunity to further their studies – no wonder, these juniors are miles ahead of the Malaysians.
Is our selection process, especially for juniors, transparent and done without favouritism?
Some were unhappy with the recent selection trial for the World Junior Championships. There were grouses because some had to go through the trials while others were exempted.
Is the one-off selection trial good enough to justify and determine the best players and, if it is not, why waste time even conducting such a trial?
BAM met up with parents of these players recently to look into some matters – but are parents even intefering with the running of junior programmes?

more information: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/31/Fight-opponents-not-each-other/

Chong Wei advises juniors to go the extra mile

Published: Monday March 31, 2014 MYT 5:28:00 PM
Updated: Monday March 31, 2014 MYT 10:04:12 PM

Chong Wei advises juniors to go the extra mile

by rajes paul

Lee Chong Wei: ' The reality is that the standard of some of our youngsters is not there yet. I hope they will not be demoralised but will train harder.' – AFP Photo

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PASIR GUDANG: World No. 1 Lee Chong Wei is out to wipe out the gloom in the men’s singles department following the insipid performances of his juniors at the Malaysia Grand Prix Gold last week.
The 31-year-old Chong Wei will begin his challenge in the Indian Open Wednesday in New Delhi and hopes are high on the top seed to bring some cheer to Malaysian fans in the Superseries tournament.
The three-time All-England champion will take on a qualifier in the opening round. He has three good Indian players – the Malaysia Open GP Gold runners-up Sourabh Varma, R.M.V. Gurusaidutt and P. Kashap in his quarter.
Some of the other top players set to spice up the competition are second seed Chen Long, Japan’s Kenichi Tago, Denmark’s Jan O Jorgensen and Indonesa’s Dionysius Hayom Rumbaka.
Chong Wei sympathised with his juniors, urging them to continue training hard.
“The reality is that the standard of some of our youngsters is not there yet. I hope they will not be demoralised but will train harder,” said Chong Wei on Monday.
“It all depends on the quality of their training. If they are willing to go the extra mile in training, it will translate to good results in the competition. They just have to keep trying in other tournaments.”
Chong Wei also hopes that Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng will be back on their feet soon. Wei Feng hurt his back during the Malaysia Open GP Gold but will compete in the Indian Open, while Daren skipped the tournament because of a heel injury.
“It is unfortunate that injuries are hampering their progress. I have suffered injuries before and I understand their predicament. I just hope they will be in good form at the Thomas Cup Finals.”
Malaysia have been drawn in Group C with South Korea, India and Germany for the Finals in New Delhi from May 18-25.
“The draw is out and we have to start focusing on our opponents and getting ready for the Finals. South Korea will be our main stumbling block in the group,” he said.
“I was injured at the last edition (in Wuhan) but I will make sure I remain injury-free this time.”
On his chances at the Indian Open, Chong Wei said: “The tournament should be a good warm-up for most of players ahead of the Thomas Cup Finals.
“Many of India’s singles players have improved. I will stay focused and do what I like to do best – enjoy myself on the court,” added Chong Wei, who has won the Indian Open twice - in 2011 and 2013.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/31/Chong-Wei-advises-juniors-to-go-the-extra-mile/

Back to service training for doubles players

PASIR GUDANG: If there is one takeaway point from the just-concluded Malaysia Open Grand Prix Gold, it is that the national doubles shuttlers need to work on their service.
National doubles coach Pang Cheh Chang is aware of it and he is ready to arrest the problem to get the players back on track.
At the GP Gold, all three pairs – Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong, Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah and Tan Boon Heong-Ow Han Yan experienced some trouble with their service.
Khim Wah-V Shem were the only Malaysians in action in the final on Sunday but they were humbled by Singapore’s Danny Bawa Chrisnanta-Chayut Triyachart.
The Malaysians either served to the net or got caught with their poor service-return. For some, their service was faulted.
“Service and service-return are so important in the doubles but this is where we faltered this time,” said Cheh Chang.
“All players had their share of bad moments in service. Thien How, Yao Han and Boon Heong were distracted when their service was faulted.
“Khim Wah and V Shem had their bad moments too and naturally, all this added pressure on them each time they could not get it right.
“I acknowlege this problem and will look into it. When they get their service right, they will surely play with so much confidence.”
All three pairs will take part in the Indian Open Superseries starting on Wednesday and hopes are high on them to salvage some pride.
Thien How-Wee Kiong will take on Kang Jun-Liu Cheng of China in the first round while Khim Wah-V Shem meet India’s Manu Attri-B. Sumeeeth Reddy. Boon Heong-Yao Han have a tough opener against Denmark’s Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen.

 

沒結婚就不錯了 諶王交往已5年

（北京28日綜合電）諶龍與王適嫻的戀情，在全英賽期間經媒體報導后公開化，但是實際上兩人交往已5年，總教練李永波更笑言沒結婚算不錯了。

　由于兩人相對比較低調，並沒有在賽場上有太多親暱舉動，戀情沒有浮出台面，但是兩人感情平穩發展，戀情早已經為圈內所熟悉。

　在中國國家隊內，諶龍和王適嫻的戀愛更是人人皆知。隊員有時候甚至以“龍嫂”來稱呼王適嫻。

　 一些鐵桿的球迷也很清楚諶龍和王適嫻的戀情。在2013年中國公開賽半決賽上，諶龍對陣馬來西亞的張維峰。在比賽膠著時，就有球迷在看台上高喊，“王適嫻都贏了”；看台上懂行的球迷都爆發出了善意的笑聲，連本來準備好接發球的諶龍都樂了。

　5年相戀，諶龍和王適嫻的戀情發展順利。據知情人透露，諶龍父親的手機屏保都是諶龍和王適嫻的合影。

李永波持“放任”態度

　李永波對兩人交往之事繼續擺“放任”態度。“只要不影響訓練和比賽，不因為戀愛而給隊伍帶來任何負面影響，那就是合格的隊員，也有機會成為國羽大家庭的楷模。”

　李永波表示，自己在國家隊扮演很多角色，既是總教練，又是父母和兄長，自己會以不同角色去對待他們在場內場外的不同，“隊員有自由去做任何事情，無論是談戀愛還是其他興趣愛好，我會像父親一樣去引導、關心、愛護他們。”

　“只要他們認可這種關係，我尊重他們，只要他們彼此欣賞，那就在一起。”

　李永波甚至半開玩笑，稱兩人都過了晚婚年齡了，“諶龍已經26歲了，王適嫻也24歲了，他們談戀愛而已，沒結婚就不錯了！”

原文:http://www.chinapress.com.my/node/512030

2年後接班李宗偉 蘇德智立志

身高178公分，力量與速度型球員，他具備了男單要求的快、狠、準條件，而這位現年19歲的2013年亞青賽冠軍，目前視日本新一代男單、2013年世青冠軍桃田賢斗為假想敵，希望先拉近與他的水平。　

　他在打敗師兄阿里夫時表示，目前有雄心向更高的水平挑戰，由于比他早一屆獲得亞青冠軍已打出名堂，所以他希望可以獲得更多正名機會。

　蘇德智訪問表示渴求與更多國家一線隊球員共練的機會，畢竟與更多水平更高的隊友練球，可以加速他進步。

　他重申雖然有信心可以接過李宗偉的捧子，但是他表示不會冒進，一切還是會听取大馬羽總的安排，尤其這次湯杯選拔賽，他也不參加。　

　“我認為再過兩年會是一個更加合時宜的時間，我想到時我的球藝會更加成熟。”　

　他已表達了本身對進步的渴求，就看接下來大馬羽總如何去栽培有鬥心的苗子。

原文：http://www.chinapress.com.my/node/512031\

2014马来西亚黄金大奖赛【3月27日赛程】

大马时间09:00AM开始

09:00AM 混双:陈炳顺/赖佩君（马）【VS】Yip Jiun Tan/白燕微（马）
09:40AM 混双:黄辉颖/邹美君（马）【VS】Arun Vishnu/Aparna Balan（印度）
09:40AM 混双：王建国/李明艳（马）【VS】曾敏豪/赖佳玟（台）
10:20AM 混双:鲁迪夫/宋佩珠（马）【VS】Vountus Indra Mawan（马）/Prajakta Sawant（印度）
10:20AM 混双:陈毅权/林芸如（马）【VS】 Yong Kai Terry Hee/Mingtian Fu（新）
10:20AM 混双:蔡克偉/CHEAH Yee See（马）【VS】廖敏竣/陈晓欢（台）
11:00AM 女双:TAN Chee Tean/赖潔敏（马）【VS】Pranaav Jerry Chopra/Siki Reddy N.（印度）
11:40AM 男单:阿里夫（马）【VS】Chih Hsun Yang（台）
11:40AM 男单:苏德智（马）【VS】Siswanto(印尼）
12:20PM 男单:Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub（马）【VS】Sai Praneeth B.（印度）
01:00PM 男单:吴顺发（马）【VS】Peranut Boontan（泰）
01:40PM 男单:楊升宙（马）【VS】Gurusaidutt R. M. V. （印度）
01:40PM 男单:张维峰（马）【VS】黄宇翔（中）
03:00PM 女双:宋佩珠/艾美丽雅（马）【VS】Chaladchalam Chayanit/Peeraya Munkitamorn（泰）
03:00PM 女双:Kah Mun Chin/Wei Chyi Ti（马）【VS】于小含/黄雅琼（中）
03:40PM 女双:林芸如/李明艳（马）【VS】陈晓欢/赖佳玟（台）
04:20PM 男双:吴伟申/林钦华（马）【VS】徐家铭/張御宇（马）
04:20PM 男双:陈文宏/区耀汉（马）【VS】Hardianto Hardianto/Agripinna Prima Rahmanto Putra（印尼）
05:40PM 女单:郑静忆（马）【VS】Sayaka Sato（日）

完整赛程:http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=52045CBE-EAA1-4CCD-BE58-F1F9C13007D7&d=20140327

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=52045CBE-EAA1-4CCD-BE58-F1F9C13007D7

photo：yonex
 

2014瑞士黄金大奖赛【决赛赛程】

★大马时间07：00PM开始★ASTRO 817★

男双：柴飚/洪炜（中）【VS】傅海峰/张楠（中）
女双：包宜鑫/汤金华（中）【VS】Nitya Krishinda MAHESWARI/Greysia POLII（印尼）
女单：王仪涵（中）【VS】孙瑜（中）
男单：Viktor AXELSEN（丹）【VS】田厚威（中）
混双：柴飚/汤金华（中）【VS】Chris ADCOCK/Gabrielle ADCOCK（英）

官网赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=ED0EEF04-3B7E-4FB3-8899-474D8E098C8B&d=20140316

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=ED0EEF04-3B7E-4FB3-8899-474D8E098C8B

网络直播:www.frombar.com

湯尤杯決賽圈‧羽總19日辦選拔賽 古健傑受邀參與

（吉隆坡13日訊）大馬羽總將于本月19日進行湯尤杯選拔賽，離開國家隊的前國手受邀參與，男雙查克利與法魯茲祖安以及古健傑都會爭取一席參賽權！

　在2010年離開國家隊的查克拉指出，他和法魯茲祖安已收到羽總的邀請，參加19日在武吉佳拉舉行的選拔賽，有望再次代表湯杯隊出征。

集訓計劃展延

　另外，受邀出戰的還有剛退出國家隊的古健傑、女雙黃惠齡與黃惠恩以及另外5名男單包括米士本蘭丹、祖法利、陳俊翔、阿里夫和曾廣銘。

　查克拉說，收到羽總的邀請有些意外，這也說明羽總辦事透明化。

　這是羽總首次進行正式選拔賽，以前，羽總也曾經召回已經退役的黃綜翰與哈菲茲加入湯杯隊，但是他們並沒有參與。

　本屆湯尤杯賽決賽圈將于5月18至25日在印度新德里舉行，將派出4名男單和3支男雙組合的湯杯隊陣容幾乎敲定，李宗偉與張維峰已確定入選，2支男雙雲天豪與陳煒強、吳偉申與林欽華也鎖定席位，因此男單和男雙還剩各3席待爭奪。

　羽總可能會選擇查法組合，或讓古健傑與陳文宏再次合夥，但也極有可能會選中一名年輕小將如區耀漢、徐家銘或張御宇，再配一名老將，讓雙打組合更有彈性變陣。

　另一方面，由于國內煙霾情況嚴重，羽總已展延原訂本月12至15日前往國家公園集訓的計劃。

原文：http://www.chinapress.com.my/node/506817

破10万分！李宗伟创男单纪录 他垄断榜首近6年

在新一期的世界排名当中，马来西亚名将李宗伟不仅继续高居第一，总的世界排名积分已经来到了100523.0828分，成为世界排名系统创立以来，首位突破10万分大关的男单选手。自2008年以来，李宗伟几乎垄断了男单榜首近6年的时间。

　　从2004年开始，羽联逐步迎来了林丹时代，年少气盛、攻击力骇人的林丹几乎将世界排名第一的宝座据为己有。一直到2007年年，大器晚成的李宗伟成长了起来，在来年，李宗伟便将林丹赶下了世界第一的宝座，成为继拉希德-西德克与罗斯林-哈欣之后，马来西亚第三位世界排名第一的男单球手。

　　从北京奥运会开始，林丹改变了自己的参赛策略，对于超级系列赛选择性参赛，而且经常退赛。从2008年到2012年，李宗伟几乎垄断了世界第一宝座近 4年。在2011年的10月份，李宗伟积99147.3分，创造了男单的历史最高分。在2012年的上半年，李宗伟受到伤病困扰，因为奥运会临近，林丹则 频繁参赛，最终在这一年的6月份从李宗伟手中夺回了世界第一。不过在奥运会之后，林丹长时间休战，李宗伟再次成为世界第一。

　　在2013年，李宗伟世界第一的宝座曾受到谌龙强有力的挑战，尤其是这一年谌龙对李宗伟连战连胜，一度距离李宗伟只差1200分，可惜谌龙在下半年没有抓住机会，李宗伟全年得到包括总决赛在内的7站超级赛冠军，随即稳固了世界第一的宝座。

　　在不久前的全英公开赛决赛当中，李宗伟结束了对谌龙的4连胜，夺得了个人第3个全英赛冠军。在新一期排名当中，他的积分达到了惊人的100523.0828分，第二名谌龙的积分则只有73605.01分，两相差近3万分，可见李宗伟优势之大。

　　不过李宗伟创造的仅是男单的纪录，总的纪录则由女双强档于洋/王晓理保持。在2011年，于洋/王晓理多次打破羽联排名的纪录，成为历史上第一个(对)世界排名突破10万分大关的羽坛高手，羽联现在的最高分--105554.9444分，仍由两人保持。

　　李宗伟超强的连续作战能力和状态保持能力，是所有男单选手难以比拟的，在历史上都极其罕见！他还是史上夺得超级赛冠军最多的选手，也是史上数得着的公开赛之王，但李宗伟一直没能在大赛当中取得突破，一直没有成为世界冠军，这也是他最大的遗憾。

　　从现在的情况看，唯一能够对李宗伟的世界第一宝座构成威胁的只有谌龙一人。现在的李宗伟已经32岁高龄，不久之后很有可能将调整参赛策略，不可能像现在这样几乎不会错过每一站的超级赛，那时候谌龙的机会来了。（程田）

原文：http://sports.sohu.com/20140314/n396605888.shtml

 

2014瑞士黄金大奖赛

大马时间07：30PM开始
COURT 1
混双：陈宏麟/程文欣（台）【VS】Markis KIDO/Pia Zebadiah BERNADETH（印尼）
男单：田厚威（中）【VS】孙完虎（韩）
女双：郑景银/金荷娜（韩）【VS】骆羽/骆赢（中）
男双：李胜木/蔡佳欣（台）【VS】Berry ANGRIAWAN/Ricky Karanda SUWARDI（印尼）
女双：Christinna PEDERSEN/Kamilla RYTTER JUHL（丹）【VS】Nitya Krishinda MAHESWARI/Greysia POLII（印尼）

COURT 2
混双：柴飚/汤金华（中）【VS】Peter KAESBAUER/Isabel HERTTRICH（德）
女单：孙瑜（中）【VS】刘鑫（中）
男单：Jan O JORGENSEN（丹）【VS】Henri HURSKAINEN（瑞典）
女单：成池铉（韩）【VS】Beiwen ZHANG（美）
男双：康骏/刘成（中）【VS】

★大马时间3月15日02：00AM开始★
COURT 1
男双：Mathias BOE/Carsten MOGENSEN（丹）【VS】Gideon Markus FERNALDI/Markis KIDO（印尼）
女双：张艺娜/金昭映（韩）【VS】Pia Zebadiah BERNADETH/Rizki Amelia PRADIPTA（印尼）
混双： Praveen JORDAN/Debby SUSANTO（印尼）【VS】Chris ADCOCK/Gabrielle ADCOCK（英）
女单：王适娴（中）【VS】Sindhu P. V（印度）
混双：刘成/包宜鑫（中）【VS】Joachim FISCHER NIELSEN/Christinna PEDERSEN（丹）

COURT 2
女双：包宜鑫/汤金华（中）【VS】 Eefje MUSKENS/Selena PIEK（荷）
男双：柴飚/洪炜（中）【VS】Chris LANGRIDGE/Peter MILLS（英）
女单：王仪涵（中）【VS】赛娜（印度）
男单： Rajiv OUSEPH（英）【VS】Viktor AXELSEN（丹）
男单：周天成（台）【VS】Kashyap PARUPALLI （印度）

官网赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=ED0EEF04-3B7E-4FB3-8899-474D8E098C8B&d=20140314

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=ED0EEF04-3B7E-4FB3-8899-474D8E098C8B

网络直播:www.frombar.com
 
 

Thomas Cup: BAM open trial for independent shuttlers

KUALA LUMPUR: Former international Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif was jumping for joy after getting a chance to win a place in the squad for the Thomas Cup Finals from May 18-25 in New Delhi.
The 30-year-old Zakry is one of the few former national players who have been invited by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to take part in the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals selection trial on March 19 at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara.
The other men’s doubles players are Zakry’s partner Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari and Koo Kien Keat, who recently quit the national team.
Also invited are the Ng sisters, Hui Lin and Hui Ern, and five men’s singles players – former national champion Misbun Ramdan Misbun, former world junior champion Zulfadli Zulkiffli, Tan Chun Seang, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif and Chan Kwong Beng.
It is the first time BAM are officially conducting a selection trial for the Finals.
Previously, the national body had recalled singles players Wong Choong Hann and Hafiz Hashim for national duty after their retirement but they did not have to go through trials.
The chubby Zakry gave BAM a thumbs-up for finally acting in a more transparent manner in selecting the best players for the nation – especially for a major tournament.
“I could not believe it when I received the official letter asking me and Fairuz to attend,” said Zakry.
He left BAM in 2010, the same year after representing the country at the Thomas Cup Finals in Kuala Lumupur, to become an independent player.
“At least the BAM are transparent and open with their selection process now. It also shows that the national body still have faith in us”.
Each country can have a maximum of 10 players for the Finals and Malaysia may opt for four singles and three doubles pairs.
For now, in the men’s doubles, only reigning Malaysian Open champions Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem and national number one Hoon Thein How-Tan Wee Kiong look good to win their places. That means, there should be space for one more doubles pair.
BAM have the option of choosing Zakry-Fairuzizuan or Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong, or picking any one of them and teaming him up with any of the younger ones in their stable like Ow Yao Han, Chooi Kah Ming or Teo Eei Yi.
In the men’s singles, three-time All-England champion Lee Chong Wei and Chong Wei Feng are as good as confirmed.
Liew Daren, who failed to come through the qualifying tournament at last week’s All-England, top back-up shuttler Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin and Goh Soon Huat will have to battle it out with the former internationals to earn their right.
Based on current form, Ramdan looks good to steal the third singles.
In the women’s doubles, the inclusion of Hui Lin-Hui Ern for the trial is timely as Malaysia are facing a shortage of quality women players. With Goh Liu Ying nursing a knee injury, the world No. 23 and England-based Hui Lin-Hui Ern’s presence in the Uber Cup Finals is likely to strengthen the women’s team.

sources:http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/12/Thomas-Cup-BAM-open-trial-for-independent-shuttlers/

 

Hoon-Tan vow to bounce back

HOON Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong have promised to bounce back from their quarter-final defeat in the All England with stronger performances in upcoming competitions.

The World No 7, who endured tough matches in the opening two rounds in Birmingham, lost tamely to Indonesia's World No 18 Gideon Markis Fernaldi-Markis Kido 21-18, 21-12 in 38 minutes.
The defeat came as a surprise for fans as the fifth seeded Thien How-Wee Kiong were expected to breeze past the Indonesians and qualify for their first semi-final appearance.
It was tight in the first game but the composed Gideon-Markis, the reigning French Open winners, took advantage of their opponents' erratic performance to close the game.
Thien How-Wee Kiong's confidence was also affected by several unfavourable service fault calls.
In the second game, Gideon-Markin upped their intensity and pressured the Malaysians with powerful smashes for the easy win.
Wee Kiong admitted he and Thien How made too many unforced errors and had failed to control proceedings on Friday.
"We had prepared well and were confident going into the match. However, we made mistakes and failed to control play, especially, at the net," said Wee Kiong.
"Several calls by the service umpire also went against us. I do not want to comment about the decisions but we lost points and it affected us mentally."
Thien How-Wee Kiong, ranked No 1 in Malaysia following the retirement of Koo Kien Keat, need to work harder.
The pair won their first international title at last year's Macau Open and followed up with a quarter-final appearance in the Super Series Finals in Kuala Lumpur before demoralising first round defeats in the season opener's Korea Open and Malaysian Open.
Undeterred by the poor start to the season, Thien How-Wee Kiong used the short break after the Malaysian Open to polish their game and it paid dividends as they reached the quarter-finals in last week's German Open.
Thien How-Wee Kiong, along with Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah, are being groomed by the BA of Malaysia for the Thomas Cup, World Championships in Copenhagen, Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Incheon Asian Games.
Despite working hard in training, both pairs still lag behind the world's top doubles and are not championship-material just yet.

Read more: Hoon-Tan vow to bounce back - Badminton - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/badminton/hoon-tan-vow-to-bounce-back-1.503342?cache=aozmzpzkkykstfx%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fkey%3DMalaysia%2F7.258950%2F7.576528%2F7.576528%2F7.576528#ixzz2vdAYeRvc

A step from the crown

ALL ENGLAND: Chong Wei to battle Chen Long in final in Birmingham

WORLD No 1 Lee Chong Wei and China's Chen Long will battle for the prestigious All England men's singles crown in Birmingham today.
Chong Wei reached his fifth final, but not before fending off an onslaught from South Korea's Son Wan Ho while it was a walk-in-the-park for Chen Long, who easily defeated compatriot Wang Zhengming in yesterday's semi-finals.
The top seed was not in full flow at the start but the two-time champion managed to bounce back midway in the second game to record a 14-21, 21-19, 21-15 win for his sixth career victory over the World No 11.
World No 2 Chen Long, who is second seeded, finally found his touches, following a series of erratic performances in the opening rounds, to notch a 21-17, 21-14 win over Wang Zhengming in 33 minutes.
"Wan Ho caught me by surprise as he played with so much passion and determination. I didn't expect him to play that well," said Chong Wei in Birmingham yesterday.
"I am happy with the way I played. It is not easy to overcome an inspired shuttler but I did so today. I am looking forward to facing Chen Long, and hopefully, do well tomorrow."
Regarded as Malaysia's greatest shuttler, Chong Wei started off confidently, taking a 5-0 lead in the first game but lost focus against the confident Wan Ho as the two-time Olympic silver medallist could not handle the Korean's attacking game and lost it in 16 minutes.
In the second game, Wan Ho settled in quickly before leading 13-11 and 16-14 but failed to maintain the momentum.
Chong Wei upped his game, earning points from a series of deceptive smashes and long rallies to subdue his opponent and force a third game.
It was close at the start of the third game with Chong Wei playing more patiently to earn points. The impatient Wan Ho tried to increase the tempo of the match and went for some risky play but his attempts failed to rattle Chong Wei.
Chong Wei led 12-8 and 18-15 before closing the match 21-15 in 71 minutes. It was heartbreaking for Wan Ho, who was aiming to become only the second Korean to reach the All England final since two-time Olympic semi-finallist Lee Hyun Il in 2006.
Chong Wei, however, will need all his guile and a great strategy today against Chen Long to avoid a repeat of last year's final, where the Malaysian ended up on the losing end.
Chen Long will start as favourite as the Chinese ace has won his last four encounters against Chong Wei, who last beat his nemesis in the semi-finals of the 2012 London Olympics.
RESULTS -- Semi-finals, Men's singles: Lee Chong Wei (Mas) bt Son Wan Ho (Kor) 14-21, 21-19, 21-15; Chen Long (Chn) bt Wang Zhengming (Chn) 21-17, 21-14.
Women's singles: Wang Shixian (Chn) bt Wang Yihan (Chn) 21-8, 21-15; Li Xuerui (Chn) bt Ratchanok Intanon (Tha) 21-18, 21-8; Doubles: Wang Xiaoli-Yu Yang (Chn) bt Tian Qing-Zhao Yunlei (Chn) 21-17, 21-12.
Mixed doubles: Ahmad Tontowi-Liliyana Natsir (Ina) bt Ko Sung Hyun- Kim Ha Na (Kor) 21-13, 21-11; Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei (Chn) v Xu Chen-Ma Jin (Chn) 21-11, 9-4 (rtd).

Read more: A step from the crown - Badminton - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/badminton/a-step-from-the-crown-1.503344?cache=aozmzpzkkykstfx%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fkey%3DMalaysia%2F7.258950%2F7.576528%2F7.576528%2F7.576528#ixzz2vdAHTRV4

Doubles pairs still have kinks to iron out

BIRMINGHAM: While world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei can return home with a big smile on his face, the same cannot be said of Malaysia’s under-performing men’s doubles pairs at the All-England.
Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah and Hoon Thien How-Tan Wee Kiong came here with high hopes of doing well but both pairs fell short.
Thien How-Wee Kiong, ranked No. 7 in the world, failed to get their game going in the quarter-finals and surrendered meekly to Indonesia’s Gideon Markus Fernaldi-Markis Kido.
The 24-year-old Wee Kiong said that they were emotionally affected by unfavourable service calls, which led to their defeat.
That however should not have happened to a pair of their standard. They obviously have more to work on if they are to shoulder Malaysia’s doubles challenge in the future.
V Shem-Khim Wah, on the other hand, were a bigger letdown.
After dishing out their best ever performances en route to winning the Malaysian Open in January, they just couldn’t reproduce that standard in the German Open two weeks ago.
And they found their confidence shattered after blowing a first game opportunity against Danish veterans Mathias Boe-Carsten Mogensen to lose in the first round of the All-England.
Fortunately, V Shem-Khim Wah, who have split their partnership twice in the past, handled defeat well and have vowed to bounce back from this slump.
“I guess we were unlucky to meet Boe-Mogensen a third time this year in the first round, after the Korean and Malaysian Opens,” said Khim Wah.
“When you play the same opponents too often, there will be some sort of psychological battle ... and we just lost.
“But we aim to do better and we’ll definitely hand it back to them if we meet again.
“Our goal now is the Malaysian Open GP Gold (March 25-30) and we’re aiming for another win as defending champions.”
V Shem also said that with Koo Kien Keat now out of the BA of Malaysia (BAM) stable, their target is to achieve the status of top-ranked Malaysian pair in the near future.
“We definitely want to become the new No. 1 pair in Malaysia now that Kien Keat has left,” said V Shem.
“This is a setback for us but I believe we can keep getting better as long as there is communication between us.”
Although it is encouraging for V Shem-Khim Wah to have set high standards for themselves, the pair who are currently No. 15 in the world need to do better than just aim for success on home soil.
With the Thomas Cup not more than two months away, both pairs, who are expected to be on the plane to New Delhi, still have a lot to work on, and time is running out.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/10/Doubles-pairs-still-have-kinks-to-iron-out/

All-England: This one’s special for Chong Wei

BIRMINGHAM: It was obvious that winning his third All-England crown still meant a lot to Malaysia’s world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei based on the way he fell to his knees in joy after the winning point on Sunday.
The 31-year-old, bugged by an ankle problem prior to the start of the tournament, was at his very best in the final, both physically and mentally as he romped to a convincing 21-13, 21-18 win over world No. 2 Chen Long of China.
It was the first time Chong Wei had beaten Chen Long since the London Olympics in 2012 and he really did it in style.
It goes to show that if Chong Wei gets his head in the game, Chen Long is still no match for him.
But the importance here is a first psychological strike for Chong Wei, especially since the All-England is still considered the most prestigious Superseries event.
With several more major tournaments lined up this year, Asian and Commonwealth Games and the World Championships, this could be just the boost Chong Wei needs, especially since he has been mulling retirement at the end of the year.
And the two-time Olympic silver medallist admitted that the thought of possibly competing in his last All-England, and the idea of getting one over Chen Long, spurred him on in the match.
“The All-England may be just a Superseries meet but it’s definitely the biggest Superseries in history in terms of prestige ... especially since it could be my last,” said Chong Wei.
“In that sense, it meant a lot to me to win this, and to beat Chen Long as well.
“Everyone keeps saying I always lose to him so to score a big win over him is just what I needed.
“In fact, I’m actually more relieved at winning especially since I wasn’t in the best of condition.
“The next order of business for me is to take a break, before focusing on the Thomas Cup.
“With the Asian and Commonwealth Games also coming up this year, I may also skip a few more Superseries events that I have registered for.”
The two-time Olympic silver medallist is registered for the India Open (April 1-6) and the Singapore Open from April 8-13 although it is likely that he will drop out of both.
Meanwhile, it was not just Chong Wei who bagged a third All-England crown as Indonesians Tontowi Ahmad-Liliyana Natsir also managed the feat after firing their way past China’s Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei 21-13, 21-17 in the mixed doubles final.
While it was disappointing for China in the men’s singles and mixed doubles, they still walked away with two titles – the women’s singles via Wang Shixian, and the women’s doubles through Wang Xiaoli-Yu Yang, who also won their third All-England crown.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/10/AllEngland-This-ones-special-for-Chong-Wei/

2014全英顶级系列赛【决赛成绩】

男单：李宗伟（马）【胜】谌龙（中）21-13 21-18

女单：李雪芮（中）【负】王适娴（中）19-21 18-21

男双：Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan（印尼）【胜】早川贤一/遠藤大由（日）21-19 21-19

女双：王晓理/于洋（中）【胜】马晋/唐渊渟（中）21-17 18-21 23-21

混双：张楠/赵芸蕾（中）【负】Tontowi Ahmad/ Liliyana Natsir（印尼）13-21 17-21

 

All-England: Doubles joy for China and Indonesia

BIRMINGHAM: World No. 1 Wang Xiaoli-Yu Yang demonstrated their prowess as one of the most feared women’s doubles pair in the world by clinching their third All-England title at the National Indoor Arena.
In a rare high-octane match between two China pairs, Xiaoli-Yu Yang edged Ma Jin-Tang Yuanting 21-17, 18-21, 23-21 in Sunday’s final.
Xiaoli-Yu Yang started strongly in the first game and they capitalised on the mistakes made by 20-year-old Yuanting, who was playing in her third tournament with Ma Jin.
Yuanting, however, recovered her composure in the second game. Spurred on by words of encouragement from Ma Jin, the duo edged the favourites to force a rubber.
It was neck-and-neck in the third game but Xiaoli-Yu Yang used their vast experience to win the match.
“It was a tough match, but I’m glad to win the title again,” said the 25-year-old Xiaoli who partnered Yu Yang to the All-England doubles title in 2011 and 2013.
“The All-England is one of the best tournaments in the world apart from the Olympics and World Championships. The pressure was on us right from the start as everyone here was after our scalp. This win is a result of our hard work,” she added.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan finally ended Indonesia’s drought in the men’s doubles by beating Japan’s Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa 21-19, 21-19.
Sigit Budiarto and Candra Wijaya were the last Indonesian winners in 2003.

sources:http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/09/AllEngland-Doubles-joy-for-China-and-Indonesia/

Zulfadli: I’ll get it right in two years

BIRMINGHAM: Former world junior champion Zulfadli Zulkiffli may have fallen behind the likes of Japan’s Kento Momota and Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen, but he’s not giving up just yet.
All three competed in the World Junior Championships in 2011 and Zulfadli topped the class by winning the boys’ singles title. Today, the other two are way ahead of Zulfadli.
Momota is now ranked No. 15 in the world while Axelsen is No. 26. Zulfadli, on the other hand, is lagging behind at No. 56.
It was the same at the All-England. Momota reached the quarter-finals before bowing out to world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei. As for Axelsen, he gave China’s Chen Long a run for his money before losing 10-21, 21-15, 21-12 in the first round.
Zulfadli was forced to play in the qualifying rounds and failed to secure a place in the tournament proper.
But the Malaysian is confident that he will make his mark in the next two years.
“I am envious of Momota and Viktor but I’m not too worried,” said Zulfadli.
“I believe every player is different ... some just need a bit more time to make the transition to senior stage while others like Momota are a bit faster.
“I think this is probably because they’ve been playing in a lot more tournaments at a younger age. Malaysians only really start competing after 18.
“Since my junior days, I’ve also struggled a little with injuries and that has been the biggest stumbling block in my career.
“But while some of these guys from my time have shot ahead, I don’t think I’m too far behind. I’m confident that I am on the right track to follow in their footsteps too.
“For me right now, ranking is still just a number. It’s more important for me to compete in as many tournaments as I can and learn from that. It’s the next year or two that I’m really aiming for a breakthrough.
“My next tournament is the Malaysian Open GP Gold (March 25-30) although my main target this year is to achieve a win in any tournament,” added Zulfadli.
The Kuala Lumpur-born shuttler does have a point as even China, apart from Chen Long, are struggling to raise the standard of their countless numbers of world junior champions.
It took 2009 world junior champion Tian Houwei four years before making a breakthough by winning the Australian Open last year.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/09/Zulfadli-Ill-get-it-right-in-two-years/

Chong Wei recaptures All-England title

BIRMINGHAM: World No.1 Lee Chong Wei gave Chen Long a reminder just who is still the boss after a commanding performance to win his third All-England crown at the National Indoor Arena.
The 31-year-old Chong Wei had previously lost to Chen Long in their last four meetings, including the All-England final last year.
But Chong Wei, playing in his sixth straight All-England final, was in no mood for yet another defeat as he ramped up a 21-13, 21-18 win over the world No.2 from China.
It was a superb display from Chong Wei who didn’t show any ill effects of that ankle injury that bothered him last week.
He took the first game with relative ease as Chen Long struggled to contain Chong Wei’s rampant smashes.
It was closer in the second game but Chong Wei had enough patience to finish off Chen Long in 59 minutes, before sinking onto his knees in joy.
“I really played my best today and I’m really happy to win my third All-England title,” said Chong Wei.
“I really prepared myself well for this game even though I wasn’t in the best condition prior to the start of this tournament.
“Perhaps the fact that this could be my last All-England also spurred me on and I’m delighted with the win.
“I also have to thank all the Malaysians, supporters and students in England who showed up for the final. Their presence meant a great deal to me.”
Chen Long meanwhile said that he wasn’t patient enough in tackling Chong Wei.
“I was too impatient on a match like this and I paid the price. But it’s a lesson for me to learn for the next time I face Chong Wei,” said Chen Long.
In men’s doubles, reigning world champions Mohd Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan became the first Indonesian pair since Sigit Budiarto-Chandra Wijaya in 2003 to lift the All-England crown.
Ahsan-Hendra were supreme in defeating Japan’s Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa 21-19, 21-19.
In women’s singles, 2011 champion Wang Shixian of China turned the tables on compatriot and top seed Li Xuerui for a 21-19, 21-18 win.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/10/Chong-Wei-recaptures-All-England-title/

Another shot at glory for Hiroyuki-Kenichi

BIRMINGHAM: After falling short in the final last year, Japan’s Hiroyuki Endo-Kenichi Hayakawa made sure they gave themselves another shot at winning the prestigious All-England badminton championships.
Last year, Endo-Hayakawa made a superb run to the final only to lose to China’s Liu Xiaolong-Qiu Zihan.
On Saturday, world No.2 Endo-Hayakawa nearly missed the ticket to the final as they fell behind against a fiery onslaught by South Korea’s Ko Sung-hyun-Shin Baek-cheol.
The second seeds however regained their composure to pummel the Koreans for a 16-21, 21-17, 21-13 win.
It was just rewards for the ever-consistent Endo-Hayakawa who have been ranked in the top four for the past two years.
And the pair who were German Open finalists last week, are definitely eager to win their first ever Superseries title on Sunday.
It will be a clash of the world’s top two pairs after reigning world champions Mohd Ahsan-Hendra Setiawan gave fellow Indonesians Gideon Markus Fernaldi-Markis Kido a badminton lesson in the other semi-final.
Ahsan-Hendra who have been hitting form, were just too strong in the 21-7, 21-12 win.
“We knew how they play from the videos and we were also helped by the fact that our opponents were not at their best,” said Ahsan.
“We are happy to go through to the final but we are staying focused as our opponents will be very tough.”
Meanwhile in women’s doubles, the versatile Ma Jin scaled new heights with yet another new partner - 20-year-old Tang Yuanting, as they outplayed Japan’s Misaki Matsutomo-Ayaka Takahashi.
Ma Jin-Yuanting won 21-17, 21-12 and will face compatriots and world No.1 Wang Xiaoli-Yu Yang in the final.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/09/Redemption-time-for-Hiroyuki-Kenichi-in-mens-doubles/

2014全英顶级系列赛决赛赛程

大马时间3月9日08：00PM开始

 ASTRO 817直播

女双：王晓理/于洋（中）【VS】马晋/唐渊渟（中）
男双：Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan（印尼）【VS】早川贤一/遠藤大由（日）
女单：李雪芮（中）【VS】王适娴（中）
男单：李宗伟（马）【VS】谌龙（中）
混双：张楠/赵芸蕾（中）【VS】Tontowi Ahmad/ Liliyana Natsir（印尼）

官网赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3&d=20140309

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3

网络直播：http://www.hahabar.com/20140304/v--762351-5315024e7bad34.31345811.html

  

Chong Wei scrapes through to All-England final

BIRMINGHAM: World No. 1 Lee Chong Wei huffed and puffed his way past South Korea’s Son Wan-ho to check into the final of the All-England badminton championships.
Two-time winner Chong Wei, who has enjoyed an easy run so far, found the 25-year-old military man a sturdy wall as he slogged for a 14-21, 21-19, 21-15 win in the semi-finals at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on Saturday.
Despite taking a 5-1 lead in the first game, Chong Wei was caught off-guard by Wan-ho’s steely determination as the Korean came back strongly to win it.
The two-time Olympic silver medallist then toyed with the prospect of a surprise – and painful exit – when Wan-ho led 17-15 in the second game.
Being the fighter that he is, Chong Wei managed to muster enough firepower in reserves to force a deciding rubber by the skin of his teeth.
He then stormed ahead to seal his place in his sixth straight All-England final after 71 minutes.
It will also be a repeat of last year’s title match after world No. 2 and defending champion Chen Long came through unscathed in his semi-final match against compatriot Wang Zhengming, winning 21-17, 21-14.
“He (Wan-ho) was playing really well ... really consistent and was making a lot of quality shots. That caught me by surprise a little,” said Chong Wei.
“I think that because I had the (ankle) injury before I came here, I was not fully prepared for the tournament and a tough match like this.
“But I’m really happy with the way I played ... having to fight back to beat him.
“Chen Long is my biggest rival right now and he is also the defending champion ... I’m looking forward to doing my best against him and win my third All-England title.
“I just need to be more focused and get a good rest before I face him tomorrow (today).”
Chen Long, meanwhile, acknowledged that he was getting back to his best and is not ready to surrender his title to Chong Wei.
“This was one of my better matches ... I’m feeling good and in good shape,” said Chen Long.
“It will be tough against Chong Wei but I learn from experience every time I face him.”
In the women’s singles, fourth seed Wang Shixian turned the tables on second seed Wang Yihan with a comprehensive 21-8, 21-15 win.
China’s Shixian will meet compatriot Li Xuerui in the final. Xuerui had beaten Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon 21-18, 21-8.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/08/Chong-Wei-scrape-through-to-AllEngland-final/

Ratchanok-Xuerui semi-final showdown is on

BIRMINGHAM: The much-anticipated rematch between world champion Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand and world No. 1 Li Xuerui is finally on.
Last August, Ratchanok stunned the badminton world by defeating Xuerui in the final of the World Championships in China.
Ratchanok, whose form has waned since the world meet high, managed to shrug off her inconsistencies to end the gallant run of unseeded Canadian Michelle Li in the All-England, winning 23-21, 21-16 to set up the clash with Xuerui in the semi-finals.
This will be the first time the 18-year-old Thai will be meeting Xuerui since the World Championships final.
“I’m feeling a bit more relaxed finally and it was probably the best I’ve played in a while,” said Ratchanok.
“Although I’m not at 100% yet, I’m definitely looking forward to facing Xuerui once more ... it’s been a while.
“I’ll try my best not to think about my win over her in the world meet. I’ll just focus on the semi-finals.”
Xuerui, who won the All-England in 2012, overpowered South Korea’s Sung Ji-hyun 21-17, 21-8 in what was her best performance of the week so far.
The 23-year-old Xuerui, who hails from Chongqing, believes that she is finally hitting top gear after being taken to three games in the first and second round matches.
“I definitely played a lot better compared to the first two days,” said Xuerui. “Perhaps staying on court longer has helped me with my performances, but it’s still physically demanding ... especially with the slow shuttlecock.
“I’m looking forward to facing Ratchanok ... I’ll definitely try my best.”
The other semi-final will be between second seed Wang Yihan and fourth seed Wang Shixian, both of China.
In women’s doubles, the versatile Ma Jin will lead a younger Tang Yuanting against the only non-Chinese pair left – Japan’s Misaki Matsutomo-Ayaka Takahashi – for a place in the final.

 

2014全英顶级系列赛女单【半决赛】

女单：李雪芮（中）【胜】拉差诺（泰）21-18 21-8

决赛对手--->王适娴（中）

2014全英顶级系列赛女双【半决赛】

女双：王晓理/于洋（中）【胜】田卿/赵芸蕾（中）21-17 21-12

2014全英顶级系列赛【半决赛】

男单：谌龙（中）【胜】王筝铭（中）21-17 21-14

决赛对手---->李宗伟（马）

 

2014全英顶级系列赛男单【半决赛】

男单：李宗伟（马）【胜】孙完虎（韩）14-21 21-19 21-15

网络直播：
 http://www.sportlemon.tv/20140307/vv531a2a92054c05.08874038-764527.htmlhttp://www.sportlemon.tv/20140307/vv531a2a92054c05.08874038-764527.html


 

Late bloomer Gao Huan ready for Thomas Cup duty

BIRMINGHAM: Gao Huan may be a late bloomer in the China national team, but he believes he is ready to fight for a place in the multi-talented squad, especially with the Thomas Cup coming up in May.
The 24-year-old was part of the Chinese team that bagged the team gold at the World Junior Championships in 2007 and 2008.
He was also a silver medallist at the World University Games last year losing to South Korea’s Hong Ji-hoon.
And Gao Huan, who was once compared to Lin Dan during his junior days, is ready to step up and fill the void as China seeks a 10th Thomas Cup crown.
Although the world No. 44 lost out in the second round of the All-England, to compatriot Wang Zhengming 19-21, 17-21, it was his attacking displays that left a lasting impression.
The young shuttler came through the qualifiers and put up a memorable performance in shocking third seed Tommy Sugiarto of Indonesia in the first round.
“I’m considered a slow starter in the national team because there are so many players back home and sometimes you just have to work hard and wait for the opportunities,” said Gao Huan.
“Compared to some of the other players from my generation, I did not have the most outstanding junior career.
“Also, I had some injuries to worry about and that set me back a little.
“But I’m definitely happy with the way I am playing and I know I can just get better.
“China will be looking to win the Thomas Cup this year, and I may be ranked further down, but I am definitely ready to step up and fight for a place.”
With Du Pengyu, who lost in the first round of the All-England, and Zhengming both struggling to hit top form, China only have world No. 2 Chen Long as a reliable option.
Gao Huan’s impressive offensive arsenal will certainly be a big addition, but first, there are three more higher ranked shuttlers – Xue Song (No. 28), Chen Yuekun (No. 29) and Tian Houwei (No. 32) to overcome as they are also vying for a place in that team.
Plus, speculation is rife that Lin Dan could make a comeback at the prestigious team event.

Sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/07/Late-bloomer-Gao-Huan-ready-for-Thomas-Cup-duty/

Chen and Wang happy ending in sight at All England event

BIRMINGHAM, England (Reuters) - China's holder Chen Long and his girlfriend Wang Shixian are on track for a happy ending to their love affair with the All England Open Badminton Championships after reaching the singles semi-finals on Friday.
Chen kept his title defence alive by overcoming an early scare to beat Denmark's Hans-Kristian Vittinghus, who showed his pedigree to win the first game 21-18.
However, Chen composed himself at the break and then showed his qualities to take the next two games 21-11 21-14.
"I was worried especially during the first game because my opponent is a great player so I did feel quite a lot of pressure at one point," said Chen.
"But I think both of us performed really well so I think in the end I was really lucky to progress. This is a very unique place and many players want to win.
"And it's a fine line between winning and losing so I just want to try my best."
Chen next faces compatriot Zhengming Wang who beat South Korean Dong Keun Lee 21-13 16-21 21-17 in his quarter-final.
Women's No. 4 seed Wang eased past India's Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal 21-17 21-10 to set up an all-Chinese clash against London Games silver medallist Wang Yihan who beat South Korean Bae Yeon Ju 21-8 21-13.
Wang knows that to match her partner Chen's achievement of reaching the final last year she must be confident.
"I think for every athlete confidence is the key thing and every time I win a match it gives me a boost," said Wang.
"Even though the scoreboard might not have said it, it was a very tough match for me.
"I need to go into every match with confidence because that is the only way that I can beat my opponents."
Chris and Gabby Adcock, hoping to become the first English husband-and-wife team to win the mixed doubles title at the Yonex championships since the 1930s, went out to Olympic champions Zhang Nan and Zhao Yunlei in the last eight.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/08/Chen-and-Wang-happy-ending-in-sight-at-All-England-event/

Xuerui hopes to reclaim All-England title

BIRMINGHAM: It was the All-England two years ago when Li Xuerui first burst onto the scene.
Then, only 21 and relatively new to the badminton scene, Xuerui announced her presence on the world stage by claiming the crown after beating compatriot Wang Yihan in straight games.
That was also Xuerui’s best ever year to date, as she won a total of eight titles – including the Asian championships and the London Olympics gold medal.
Last year proved to be least successful for Xuerui as, despite winning the Superseries Finals, she was bundled out in the first round of the All-England and lost in the final of the World Championships to Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon.
Xuerui, however, began this year in style – winning the Malaysian Open – and has stated her desire to regain the All-England crown.
“I really want to do well here because this tournament is special to me,” said Xuerui after surviving a close shave with another early elimination before overcoming Thai youngster Busanan Ongbumrungpan 21-14, 15-21, 22-20.
“Two years ago, this was where I won my first major tournament ... and it set me on the path to becoming an Olympic champion and world No. 1.
“So, to come back to the All-England really means a lot to me ... hopefully, I’ll go all the way again.”
Xuerui acknowledged that the near-defeat reminded her of the painful loss to Ratchanok last year.
“Against Busanan, I was reminded a little of my defeat to Ratchanok. The Thai players are really good,” said Xuerui.
“But it doesn’t really bother me too much now because it is a lesson that I try to teach myself.
“Besides, after every tough start, there must be some easier matches that follow and I’m definitely looking forward to it.”
The world No. 1 was certainly spot-on as she dumped Japan’s Minatsu Mitani to check into the quarter-finals, albeit another three games – winning 14-21, 21-19, 21-15.

Sources:  http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/06/Xuerui-hopes-to-reclaim-All-England-title/

Chong Wei to face Wan-ho in All-England semis

BIRMINGHAM: World No. 1 Lee Chong Wei faced his toughest opponent yet but ultimately prevailed as he stepped up his quest for a third All-England crown.
Going up against an extremely talented Kento Momota of Japan, Chong Wei had to be on his toes at all times before registering a 21-14, 21-18 win.
Playing in one of the last matches of the day at 11pm on Friday, Chong Wei appeared to be in a rush as he offered the 20-year-old Momota very few opportunities to manoeuvre, taking the first game 21-14.
Momota, however, grew into the match and started to showcase just what he could do with a racquet as he put Chong Wei on the backfoot on several occasions in the game.
But Chong Wei eventually pulled through with his experience for a place in the semi-finals.
“That was probably my toughest match of the week because Momota is a very good player who has improved a lot from his junior days,” said Chong Wei.
“I had to be very alert in my match but I’m happy to win and I’m looking forward to the next match.”
The 31-year-old Penangite will next meet South Korea’s Son Wan-ho, who pulled off a superb win over Japan’s fifth seed Kenichi Tago.
Wan-ho who last defeated Chong Wei in the 2012 India Open, won 21-15, 21-17.
The other semi-final will be between defending champion Chen Long of China and compatriot Wang Zhengming after the duo won the their quarter-final matches in three games each.

Sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/08/Chong-Wei-to-face-Wan-ho-in-All-England-semis/

2014全英顶级系列赛【半决赛赛程】

大马时间3月8日08：00PM开始
ASTRO 817直播

COURT 1
混双：高成炫/金荷娜（韩）【VS】Tontowi Ahmad/ Liliyana Natsir（印尼）
男单：李宗伟（马）【VS】孙完虎（韩）
女单：李雪芮（中）【VS】拉差诺（泰）
女双：高桥礼华/松友美佐紀（日）【VS】马晋/唐渊渟（中）
男双：Gideon Markus Fernaldi/Markis Kido （印尼）【VS】Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan（印尼）
男双：高成炫/申白喆（韩）【VS】早川贤一/遠藤大由（日）

COURT 2
混双：张楠/赵芸蕾（中）【VS】徐晨/马晋（中）
女单：王仪涵（中）【VS】王适娴（中）
男单：谌龙（中）【VS】王筝铭（中）
女双：王晓理/于洋（中）【VS】田卿/赵芸蕾（中）

官网赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3&d=20140308

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3

  网络直播:http://www.hahasport.com/

 

2014全英顶级系列赛【8强赛程】

大马时间3月8日01：00AM开始

 ASTRO 817直播

 COURT 1 (TV)
男双：云天豪/陈炜（木强）（马）【VS】Gideon Markus Fernaldi/Markis Kido （印尼）
混双：张楠/赵芸蕾（中）【VS】Chris Adcock/Gabrielle Adcock（英）
女单：王适娴（中）【VS】赛娜（印度）
混双：高成炫/金荷娜（韩）【VS】Mads Pieler Kolding/Kamilla Rytter Juhl（丹）
男单：孙完虎（韩）【VS】田儿贤一（日）
女双：田卿/赵芸蕾（中）【VS】垣岩令佳/前田美顺（日）
男双：李胜木/蔡佳欣（台）【VS】高成炫/申白喆（韩）

COURT 2 ×01：20AM×
男双：早川贤一/遠藤大由（日）【VS】Angga Pratama/Ryan Agung Saputra（印尼）
男单：谌龙（中）【VS】Hans-Kristian Vittinghus（丹）
男单：王筝铭（中）【VS】李东根（韩）
女双：王晓理/于洋（中）【VS】金昭映/张艺娜（韩）
女单：成池铉（韩）【VS】李雪芮（中）
男单：李宗伟（马）【VS】桃田賢斗（日）

COURT 3 ×01：10AM×
混双：Tontowi Ahmad/ Liliyana Natsir（印尼）【VS】 Danny Bawa Chrisnanta/Yu Yan Vanessa Neo（新）
女双：高桥礼华/松友美佐紀（日）【VS】 Pia Zebadiah Bernadeth/Rizki Amelia Pradipta（印尼）
女双：马晋/唐渊渟（中）【VS】李绍希/申昇瓒（韩）
女单：王仪涵（中）【VS】裴延姝（韩）
女单：拉查诺（泰）【VS】Li Michelle（加）
混双：徐晨/马晋（中）【VS】早川贤一/松友美佐纪（日）
男双：Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan（印尼）【VS】傅海峰/张楠（中）

官网赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3&d=20140307

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3



网络直播: http://www.sportlemon.tv/20140304/vv5315024e640e63.40113882-762351.html

 

2014全英顶级系列赛【次圈赛程】

大马时间3月6日06：00PM开始

COURT 3
09：00PM 男双：云天豪/陈炜（木强）（马）【VS】平田典靖/橋本博且（日）

★3月7日★
COURT 1
01：45AM 男单：李宗伟（马）【VS】张维峰（马）

COURT 3
02：00AM 女双：温可微/许嘉雯（马）【VS】高桥礼华/松友美佐紀（日）

完整赛程：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/sport/matches.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3&d=20140306

比分直播：http://www.tournamentsoftware.com/livescore/scoreboard.aspx?id=6DA247C0-51DE-4A7E-A3A6-EED7607702D3

网络直播：http://www.sportlemon.tv/20140305/vv5316be9012f181.76598615-762694.html
http://www.sportlemon.tv/20140305/vv5316f7635d3814.08504851-762799.html

*以上为大马预计时间，一切以实际状况为准。
*网络直播只有COURT 1 和 COURT 2
*ASTRO 8173月6日晚上10PM开始直播5场比赛

 

Peng Soon learning a thing or two from new partner

BIRMINGHAM: It’s only been two tournaments but Chan Peng Soon is already singing the praises of new partner Lai Pei Jing.
The mixed doubles pair made their debut at the Austrian International Challenge last month and enjoyed a fine run to the final before losing to Poland’s Robert Mateusiak-Agnieszka Wotjkowska.
Last week, the pair’s weaknesses were cruelly exposed by South Korea’s Ko Sung-hyun-Kim Ha-na in the German Open as they lost in the first round.
But Peng Soon, who turns 26 next month, is still impressed with Pei Jing, who is five years his junior, especially with her diligence.
“We’ve had a decent start, one final and one first round defeat ... that was because our partnership is still very new,” said Peng Soon.
“There is a lot more that we need to work on; most importantly, our understanding and communication during matches.
“Although getting good results are important ... that’s not so the case this time. It’s all for Pei Jing to get more experience playing at this level.
“She is a good player and definitely has the quality but she hasn’t played many matches at a high level. This is a very good learning experience for her ... to see how she copes.”
Peng Soon also said that partnering Pei Jing has given him a new perspective on his own game, which he hopes to put to good use if he resumes his partnership with Goh Liu Ying, who is currently nursing knee injuries.
“It’s quite different from playing with Liu Ying, with whom I’ve been through a lot ... we usually start tournaments seeded, so we get slightly easier draws,” explained Peng Soon.
“With Pei Jing, we’ve had to start from scratch. But it’s good too as I can expand my own game.
“I can see that Pei Jing has stepped up her game tremendously ... she’s showing a really good attitude and is working hard during trainings.
“As for the All-England, there’s no real target since we’ve been given the toughest possible draw. We’ll just go out and fight.”
Peng Soon-Pei Jing will face defending champions and reigning world champions Tontowi Ahmad-Liliyana Natsir of Indonesia in the first round.
Meanwhile, China’s dominant pair of Zhang Nan-Zhao Yunlei are favourites to win their second All-England title after 2010 although Denmark’s Joachim Fischer Nielsen-Christinna Pedersen, who thrashed the Chinese in the final of the Malaysian Open in January, may again prove to be spoilers.

sources: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2014/03/04/Peng-Soon-learning-a-thing-or-two-from-new-partner/

Yao Han to partner Boon Heong

BIRMINGHAM: Tan Boon Heong may not stay single for long after all.
Boon Heong, who turns 27 in September, was left in the cold following poor results with Koo Kien Keat, with a first round defeat in the Malaysian Open in January being his last tournament.
With Kien Keat’s resignation from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) last month, Boon Heong was left with no partner.
The BAM had entrusted the coaches with the the decision of who to pair with Boon Heong, and they have selected two-time world junior champion (2009-2010) Ow Yao Han.
The pair have been slotted for the Malaysian Open GP Gold from March 25-30 in Johor – their first tournament together as a pair.
Yao Han has also been without a partner since Teo Kok Siang was injured during a car accident in January, ruling him out for at least three months.
Boon Heong, the world junior champion in 2004, has already started training with Yao Han so they will not be out of shape as a pair when the tournament begins.
The move to pair up Boon Heong and Yao Han is also a logical one by national doubles coach Pang Cheh Chang, who is in charge of both shuttlers, given Boon Heong’s experience competing in the Thomas Cup since 2008 as well as winning the Asian Games gold medal with Kien Keat in 2007.
Indonesia have already shown that pairing a senior with a junior has the potential for success with Mohd Ahsan and the more experienced Hendra Setiawan going on to become world champions last year.
Even China are giving this mix-and-match strategy a go with four-time world champion Fu Haifeng paired up with several younger players since the World Championships in Guangzhou last year.
Boon Heong-Yao Han certainly look good on the cards, and only time will tell if they are given the chance to blossom into a proper partnership.
For now, Boon Heong will certainly rue the missed opportunity of competing in the All-England, which he last won in 2007.

 

Chong Wei, Wei Feng through to second round

BIRMINGHAM: It was plain sailing for world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei and Chong Wei Feng in the first round of the All-England at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham.
Chong Wei showed no ill effects of his ankle injury as he scored a comprehensive 21-15, 21-17 win over Thailand’s Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk on Wednesday.
Over on the other court, world No. 16 Wei Feng, who has endured a torrid start to the year, put up a superb attacking display to pack off world No. 11 Marc Zwiebler of Germany 21-18, 21-19.
A third Malaysian shuttler was in the fray in the first round. However, Misbun Ramdan Misbun, who came through the qualifiers, went down to Taiwan’s Chou Tien-chen 21-15, 21-10.
But the focus was on Chong Wei’s splendid start as he goes in search of his third All-England crown in what could probably be his last appearance.
“The injury is fine ... there’s no pain and I’m not even thinking about pulling out any more,” said Chong Wei.
“When I first got onto the court, I was a little worried about the injury but it seems fine in the end.”
Chong Wei was also full of praise for his second-round opponent Wei Feng.
“It’s nice to see Wei Feng playing so well ... he has definitely improved a lot,” said Chong Wei.
“He may not be at my level yet but he’s making good progress and I’ll give my best against him tomorrow ... without holding back.”
As for Wei Feng, the scrawny Kedahan was just relieved to have picked up his first win of the year following first round exits at the Korean and Malaysian Opens.
“I’m just so happy and so relieved ... my form was bad before this, with the Malaysian Open defeat being a low point,” said Wei Feng.
“I started well but got a little tense in the second game ... I was making more loose shots after all the long rallies.
“But I’m really just happy to go through and I’m looking forward to facing Chong Wei. He is definitely tough but I’ve learned a lot from the past month training with him and I intend to show it on court.
“Of course, his slight discomfort with his ankle may give me a little advantage,” added a hopeful Wei Feng.
In other results, fifth seed Kenichi Tago of Japan needed three games to subdue India’s P. Kashyap.
But there were shock exits for third seed Tommy Sugiarto of Indonesia and eighth seed Nguyen Tien Minh of Vietnam, who lost to qualifiers Gao Huan of China and Lee Dong-keun of South Korea respectively.
Women’s singles world champion Ratchanok Intanon nearly suffered an early exit before coming from behind to edge Singapore’s Gu Juan 20-22, 21-15, 21-18.
 

夏煊澤：林丹最優秀

（中國‧北京5日訊）中國國羽男單教練夏煊澤認為中國“全滿貫”林丹是當今最優秀的男單球員，而從球員轉變出任國羽男單少帥後，最大的挑戰就是帶領球員爭奪冠軍。

已變得更成熟的夏煊澤在接受《羽毛球》的訪問時表示，林丹不只是成績和技戰術出色，而且比賽氣質和訓練態度都是一流。

他表示，當球員時，是教練幫他衝擊冠軍，而他出任教練後，覺得最大挑戰也是帶領隊員爭奪冠軍，為國爭光。

“我覺得當球員與教練的最大分別就是球員只管好自己，而身為教練就得管好所有球員，帶領球員爭取好成績，瞭解球員的生活和想法，比當球員時，要想得更多。”

浏览全文：http://sports.sinchew.com.my/node/35192?tid=3

蓋特忠告一哥 延長生涯就要減產

（伯明翰5日法新電）丹麥羽球“常青樹”彼得蓋特忠告世界第一的李宗偉，如果想延長打球生涯，前提就是減產。

　現年32歲的李宗偉，目前出擊在伯明翰的全英賽，而此時人在伯明翰的丹麥人彼得蓋特，向李宗偉提出忠言。

　“李宗偉每次打比賽，都是卯足勁、全力以赴，因為他想看自己能走到多遠。不過，每個星期都要保持很好的狀態是真的非常不容易，並非所有的運動員都能做到。”

　“所以，我非常欽佩李宗偉，他經常四處征戰，而且每次作戰，都是交出最好的狀態。”

　彼得蓋特在2012年倫敦奧運會之后就退役，他坦言，如果宗偉想保持狀態，持續到2016年奧運會的話，他就必須懂得如何照顧好自己的身子。

　“林丹的情況就跟他不同，他可以選擇性的參賽。”

不方便透露太多

　“林丹沒有如李宗偉般四處征戰，兩者大為不同。我並非說一個是有智慧、而另一個卻不是。這只是兩者的做法不一樣，一個是他非經常參賽不可。”

　“李宗偉可能認為他必須參加這些比賽，他可能想看自己能撐到哪一個階段。可是一來到大賽，這就會影響到體力、動力和精力。”

　“對林丹來說，可能大家都說他應該參加更多比賽，但他有不參賽的理由。所以，他在大賽的表現就看出分別。”

　彼得蓋特所言，意指每個賽會如要林丹皆闖入半決賽或決賽，絕非易事。

　“可能是贊助商的關係吧，李宗偉要參加這么多的比賽，或許是羽總的壓力，抑或是其他外來壓力吧。我不方便講太多，不過，我認為他如此經常作戰的話，對他們來說相當艱辛，尤其是精神和體力，可能不勝負荷。

　我想，他是不是應該暫停下來，讓自己好好休息呢？”

原文：http://www.chinapress.com.my/node/504370