Jalani challenges shuttlers to end 20-year Asian Games gold drought

KUALA LUMPUR: Badminton legend Datuk Seri Jalani Sidek has challenged the national shuttlers to end Malaysia's 20-year Asian Games gold medal drought at Aichi-Nagoya.

Malaysia last struck gold through scratch pair Koo Kien Keat–Tan Boon Heong at the 2006 Doha Games, and Jalani believes the present squad have an opportunity to finally end that barren run.

"We have not won gold for 20 years. This is the challenge for them, and there is also a reward from the national body waiting," said Jalani when met at the Allianz Media Badminton Championships on Thursday.

"It is time for them to prove themselves. It is not impossible."

Jalani identified independent men's doubles pair Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani as Malaysia's best hope but believes scratch combination Aaron Chia–Tee Kai Wun are also capable of mounting a challenge.

He said Aaron–Kai Wun must justify BAM's decision to pair them for the Games, with the former's experience and character potentially proving crucial.

"Aaron and Kai Wun have to prove that what has been done can succeed. This is a challenge for them.

"Aaron has experience, and both players have competed at the highest level. But from what I have seen, Sze Fei and Izzuddin are the pair who could deliver success for us.

"They still have a chance, and it is not impossible."

Jalani described the Asian Games badminton competition as open despite the presence of leading combinations from China, India and other regional powers.

He said Malaysia's pairs must study the draw carefully and devise specific strategies for opponents of a similar standard.

"The desire to prove that they are the best will be important. They must possess the willpower to become champions," he added.

Jalani also believes Aaron–Kai Wun could benefit from entering the competition as underdogs, allowing them to play with less pressure.

"If they do not want to become a target, then they can label themselves as underdogs," he said

"If that status allows them to perform and shine, then it is good. But they still have to prove themselves."

Besides Sze Fei–Izzuddin and Aaron–Kai Wun, Jalani also urged women's doubles pair Pearly Tan–M. Thinaah to rise to the occasion and chase the promised reward.