You raise me up, coach
Iskandar rediscovers passion for the game under Misbun
PETALING JAYA: Shuttler Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin has rediscovered his zest for the game under head coach Datuk Misbun Sidek.
“It’s because of Misbun that I’ve done well at the Indian Open. I’m more motivated to succeed now,” said Iskandar, who has been under the veteran coach’s guidance over the last six months.
Iskandar blew away second seed and world No. 5 K. Srikanth of India in the second round before going down fighting to China’s Shi Yuqi in the semi-finals in New Delhi on Saturday.
Iskandar was on the brink of giving up his career before Misbun joined the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) set-up in August last year.
The 2015 Malaysian Masters runner-up suffered a slipped disc in February and was out of action for four months before returning for the Thailand Open in June.
He played at the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games in August but failed to come good as he struggled to regain his form. Iskandar’s only positive result was a victory at the Malaysian International Challenge.
“Misbun coming into the national set-up changed everything for me. We talked all the time and I told him that this could be my last year and I promised to go all out,” said Iskandar.
“I know the fans and management have really pushed me to deliver. The last few months have been really tough on me.
“I’m pleased with my run at the Indian Open this week. It’s my first semi-final since the China Open in 2016 and it has given me a much needed confidence boost.”
With his confidence restored, the 26-yearold Iskandar aims to do well in the Asia Team Championships starting tomorrow in Alor Setar, Kedah.
“I’m not done yet ... I’m looking to put up another good show in Alor Setar,” said Iskandar, who will play as the third singles behind world No. 2 Lee Chong Wei and Lee Zii Jia.
Malaysia certainly need Iskandar to maintain his good form as they look to navigate a Group C test featuring Taiwan, Thailand and Myanmar.
Only the top two teams progress into the quarter-finals while the top four finishers earn automatic tickets to the Thomas Cup Finals in Bangkok in May.
Malaysia are up against Thailand in their first match tomorrow.