Sanjay ready to do his part

Dejected Sarawakian to go all out in mixed doubles with Sivasangari

PETALING JAYA: Sanjay Singh Chal (pic) will not let his bruised pride get in the way of contributing a squash gold at the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games.

The 23-year-old Sarawakian is dejected that he’s been assigned to compete in only one event – the mixed doubles – with S. Sivasangari at the Games from Aug 19-30.

It’s quite a downgrade for Sanjay as he played a large part in Malaysia’s four-gold haul in Singapore two years ago. Then, he won the individual and team golds.

But the world No. 167 is taking things in his stride and wants to prove his worth.

“It’s always good to play in another SEA Games. I want to contribute to the country’s success again since we’re the hosts. And our families will be there to support us,” said Sanjay.

“Of course it would have been great to play in one of the other events – individual or team. But I’m ready to do my part in the mixed doubles too.

“It will be a challenge for Sivasangari and me. We’re a new pair and looking forward to play in the Commonwealth Games next year. This is an ideal stepping stone for us.

“I have doubles experience as I used to partner Delia before she retired (in January).

“That experience will come in handy since Sivasangari is quite new to the doubles.

“But I do believe we’re good enough to win the gold. We play more squash than the other countries in South-East Asia.

“We’re also stronger and fitter so I don’t see us having problems beating the rest of the field.”

Sanjay, who won the Malaysian Doubles Open with Delia last year, and Sivasangari are expected to be the top seeds. Ryan Pasqual-Andrea Lee, the other Malaysian pair, are likely to be seeded second.

Squash will be held at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil from Aug 21-29.

Malaysia are tipped to win seven out of the nine golds at stake.