Mei Kuan-Meng Yean storm into semi-finals in Lucknow

PETALING JAYA: National women’s doubles shuttlers Chow Mei Kuan-Lee Meng Yean stayed in the hunt for their first title of the year when they powered into the semi- finals of the Syed Modi International in Lucknow, India.

The pair staved off two comebacks from Indonesians Yulfira Barkah- Jauza Fadhila Sugiarto before defeating them 21-15, 21-15 yesterday.

Mei Kuan-Meng Yean cruised to 12-8 and 10-6 leads in both games but the determined Indonesians fought back and threatened to turn the tables around, but fortunately, the Malaysians stayed calm to take identical wins.

“Before the match started, we studied their game and was well prepared to fight against them, so

we were confident coming into this match. We wanted this result badly,” said Meng Yean.

National women’s doubles head coach Rosman Razak was pleased with their performance as they stuck to the game plan when the

momentum was against them.

“They played good today and stuck to what we had discussed and planned.

“They played a speedy game and took control of the front court,” said Rosman.

“( When the momentum was against them), I told them to continue to focus on their speed and it worked.”

The Malaysians face Indonesian second seeds Della Destiara HarisRizki Amelia Pradipta in today’s semi-finals and Mei Kuan-Meng Yean are feeling confident and ready to spring an upset.

“We are the underdogs but will give them a good fight,” said Meng Yean.

The world No. 19 pair are Malaysia’s only representatives left in the competition after the others – Tan Jia Wei (men’s singles), Shia Chun Kang-Tan Wee Gien (men’s doubles) and Vivian Hoo- Yap Cheng Wen ( women’s doubles) - crashed out in the early rounds.