Aifa’s out of doubles and it’s triple duty for Andrea

IT was a mixed day for Malaysian squash players Aifa Azman and Andrea Lee.

Two- time British Junior Open winner

Aifa suffered an unfortunate ankle injury on Monday and has been dropped from competing in the women’s doubles at the KL SEA Games.

The 15- year- old, who was initially seeded No. 1 with Rachel Arnold, will only compete in the team event.

And the 18-year-old Andrea has been given the nod to pair up with world No. 52 Rachel in the women’s doubles.

World No. 103 Andrea will have her hands full as she is also slated to compete in the team and mixed doubles events.

She will partner Ryan Pasqual in the mixed doubles.

The Kuala Lumpur girl, who is one of many to have come through the CIMB Foundation Junior Development Programme, is an apt replacement.

She has a good track record in the doubles, having won the Commonwealth Youth Games’ gold with Zoe Foo in 2015.

She also won gold in the mixed doubles at the Sukma last year.

“I didn’t know Aifa’s ankle injury is that serious.

“It was only yesterday that I was told that I would play in three events,” said Andrea.

“It will be a bit hectic for me and there’s definitely more pressure now.

“I’m glad to have been given this chance.

“I had my share of injuries last year but I’ve worked very hard on my fitness.

“I also feel that Rachel and I will do fine.

“We’re both from the Federal Territories (FT) team, so we’re familiar with each other’s game.

“This is the first time I’ll be partnering Ryan.

“Since we’ve been drawn to meet second seeds Pang Ka HoeMao Shihui of Singapore, we’re just gunning for an upset.”