New Straits Times

Banking on Ho Ying and Karen to repeat heroics

- Zulfaizan Mansor

has been no “real target” set for the Malaysian table tennis squad at the Indonesia Asian Games.

This is because of the imposing presence of the sport’s traditiona­l powerhouse­s.

At the previous edition in Incheon, Malaysia were sent packing in the early rounds.

It will be a tall order for Beh Lee Wei’s charges, who are expected to face favourites China, South Korea and Japan in the competitio­n.

However, the combinatio­n of Ho Ying-Karen Lyne Anak Dick, might just spring some surprises, especially after winning an unexpected bronze medal at the Commonweal­th Games in Gold Coast in April.

While for young paddler, Muhammad Ashraf Haikal Muhammad Rizal, scoring an upset is a huge achievemen­t in itself.

“To win a medal is almost impossible, but we will give our best. Personally, I want to be among the top eight in any of the events,” he said.

“The chances of winning against players from China and Japan are very low, but we expect to fight hard.”

Team manager Kang Fong Ling admitted that the Asiad is the perfect platform for the national players to gain valuable experience and exposure.

“Just like the Commonweal­th Games, we did not set a target, but Ying and Karen delivered a bronze. The Asian Games will be tougher, but we will try to do the best we can.”

 ??  ?? Muhammad Ashraf Haikal Muhammad Rizal
Muhammad Ashraf Haikal Muhammad Rizal
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