PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles coach Herry Iman Pierngadi is facing a pleasant dilemma as he prepares Malaysia’s line-up for the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China starting April 27.
With three top tier pairs in the squad, the competition for a starting spot is intense. Newly crowned Asian champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, world number two duo Goh Sze Fei- Nur Izzuddin Rumsani and the fast-improving Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun each bring different strengths to the court.
Given the contrasting playing styles among the pairs, Herry will need to carefully assess which combination fits best against various opponents.
Malaysia have been drawn in Group C alongside three time runners-up Japan as well as Australia and France.
“It is not just Aaron-Wooi Yik but Wei Chong-Kai Wun also delivered solid performances in Ningbo. In terms of experience and mental strength, Aaron-Wooi Yik have the upper hand. I am just happy I could help them win the Asian title.
“I hope they can build on this momentum, especially with the Sudirman Cup just around the corner.
“I also saw that Sze Fei and Izzuddin looked happy to be part of our training session today. We’ve arranged a comfortable programme for them so they can ease into the environment. To me, there’s no such thing as independent players or BAM players because to me, they are all Malaysian players,” said Herry.
At the same time, Herry has taken the criticism from some Indonesian fans in stride following Malaysia’s breakthrough win in the men’s doubles at the Asian Championships, ending an 18-year title drought through the success of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik.
Indonesia, on the other hand, returned home empty-handed from the prestigious tournament.
“That’s one of the challenges that comes with this job, facing comments like that. Perhaps it’s because I spent many years in Indonesia and this time things didn’t go their way while Malaysia came out on top.
“It may have stirred some uneasy feelings but for me, that’s part and parcel of working in this field.
“I have no issues with the Indonesian Badminton Association or the players. In fact, I had a meal with them in Ningbo. Everything is fine as far as I’m concerned,” he added.
