SHAHRUKH STRIKES SILVER

Pahang-born loses to Schenck in the final in Detroit

SHAHRUKH Amin Zulkifli capped Malaysia’s fine outing at bowling’s World Youth Championships with another medal, when he came in second in the boys’ Masters on Friday. Dubbed the king of match play, the 18year-old Pahang-born settled for silver when he lost 244-216, 247-198 to Cortez Schenck of the United States in the final at the Thunderbowl Lanes in Detroit.

Malaysia also earned another bronze medal on the final day of the competition, through girls’ all-events winner Nur Shazwani Sahar, who lost 245-207, 246241 in the semi-final to South Korea’s Lee Jungmin

Jungmin went on to win the gold, after defeating compatriot Son Hyeonji 214214, 233-194 in the final.

“Shahrukh Amin performed tremendously on his debut and this augurs well for team Malaysia.

“Jitters did become an obstacle to his performance but he was awesome in the Masters. I am happy for him,” said team manager Maradona Chok, when contacted.

Overall, Malaysia won one gold, one silver and two bronze.

At the previous edition in Nebraska, two years ago, the national team came home with one gold, two silver and three bronze.

“I am so proud of this team for standing by one another through thick and thin, and never once lost hope. I could not have asked for more from a team that has given everything they’ve got. I am honoured to be part of this team.

“You cannot imagine, if the team had not stood by each other, and pushed themselves, we would not have recovered from the first two days. The pressure was crazy on these kids.

“Syazwani also performed brilliantly in her effort to win one gold and two bronze medals (including team of four).

“I hope that Malaysia will be able to see what our athletes go through in winning these medals. The effort, the pressure... It’s truly amazing to see them triumph,” added Maradona.