National Men’s Doubles Pair’s Orleans Masters Participation in Jeopardy
Kuala Lumpur: Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, the national men’s doubles pair, are facing uncertainty over their participation in the Orleans Masters from March 4-9 due to Aaron’s recurring wrist injury. The injury resurfaced during a recent training session, casting doubt over their ability to compete in the tournament.
Uncertainty Surrounding Participation in Orleans Masters
"I can’t give an answer on that yet. We need to assess Aaron’s condition there. If there’s an opportunity for them to play at the Orleans Masters, why not?" said national men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi.
Focus on All England Tournament
Herry emphasized that the All England remains the main target for Aaron-Wooi Yik. "But whether they achieve it (All England target) depends on their condition in England. Last year, they reached the final. If Aaron’s condition holds up, at the very least, they should be able to make it to the semi-finals or even the final again," he said recently.
Aaron’s Wrist Condition
According to Herry, he does not think Aaron’s right wrist issue would derail their participation in the All England tournament, which begins on March 11. "The Orleans Masters in France is a key warm-up event for the All England. Aaron-Wooi Yik were runners-up at the All England in 2019 and last year," he added.
Malaysia’s Representation at All England
Malaysia will be represented by seven men’s doubles pairs at the All England this year. Four pairs are from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), including Aaron-Wooi Yik, Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun, Wan Arif Wan Junaidi-Yap Roy King, and Chong Hon Jian-Haikal Nazri. The other three pairs are professionals, namely world number two Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi, and Nur Azriyn Ayub-Tan Wee Kiong.
Conclusion
The uncertainty surrounding Aaron’s participation in the Orleans Masters highlights the importance of his wrist condition in determining the pair’s performance at the All England tournament. Despite this, Herry is optimistic that Aaron-Wooi Yik will be able to make a strong showing at the All England, with a target of reaching the semi-finals or final.
FAQs
- Will Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik participate in the Orleans Masters?
- The decision is pending assessment of Aaron’s condition during the tournament.
- What is the main target for Aaron-Wooi Yik?
- The All England tournament, with a goal of reaching the semi-finals or final.
- How many men’s doubles pairs will represent Malaysia at the All England?
- Seven pairs, with four from the Badminton Association of Malaysia and three professionals.