Badminton Asia Championships: National Coach Nova Widianto on High Expectations
Kuala Lumpur, April 2 (Bernama) — National doubles coach Nova Widianto does not want to set high expectations for national mixed doubles pair Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin at the 2025 Badminton Asia Championships (BAC) in Ningbo, China, from April 8-13.
No High Expectations
Nova said placing high targets on the Badminton Association of Malaysia duo could add pressure, especially as they are set to face India’s Dhruv Kapila-Tanisha Crasto, a challenging pair, in the first round.
"We previously set targets for Pang Ron-Su Yin, but the results were not good. Maybe we shouldn’t put pressure on them. Their first match against India won’t be easy. They’ve played before, but it’s still tough. Everyone has a chance," he told reporters recently.
Current Form
Nova admitted that Pang Ron-Su Yin have yet to reach their best form this season.
"They ended last year well, but this season, they haven’t looked sharp. Hopefully, at BAC, they perform well," he said.
Advantage on Paper
On paper, the world No. 14 pair have the advantage, having defeated the Indian duo at the Indonesia Masters in January.
Debut at BAC
Pang Ron last competed in the BAC three years ago in the Philippines with Cheah Yee See, while Su Yin will be making her debut in the tournament.
Malaysian Lineup
At this year’s BAC, Malaysia’s mixed doubles lineup will also feature professional pair Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai, Wong Tien Ci-Lim Chiew Sien and Yap Roy King-Valeree Siow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National doubles coach Nova Widianto is cautious about setting high expectations for the national mixed doubles pair Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin at the 2025 Badminton Asia Championships. He believes that setting high targets could add pressure, and instead, the pair should be given the opportunity to perform without excessive expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the National doubles coach’s stance on setting high expectations for the national mixed doubles pair?
A: Nova Widianto does not want to set high expectations for the pair, citing the potential for added pressure.
Q: What is the pair’s current form like?
A: They have yet to reach their best form this season, according to Nova Widianto.
Q: What is the pair’s advantage going into the tournament?
A: On paper, they have the advantage, having defeated the Indian duo at the Indonesia Masters in January.
Q: Will the pair make their debut at the BAC?
A: Yes, Su Yin will be making her debut in the tournament.