Malaysian shuttlers told to keep their emotions in check

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian shuttlers and coaches have been advised to keep their emotions in check no matter how much they are provoked.

This comes after an appalling brawl between two Thai players at the Canadian Open on Sunday.

Former partners Bodin Issara and Maneepong Jongjit brought shame to the game during the men’s doubles final, with Bodin seen hitting and punching Maneepong and the horrible incident went viral on Youtube.

Bodin and his partner Vilailak were shown the black card and disqualified, with the referee awarding the win to Maneepong-Nipitphon Puangpuapech.

Bodin claimed that he attacked his former partner because he had provoked him by hitting his ear with a racquet and showing his middle finger.

Their personal problems go way back to the London Olympic Games in August last year. They did well to reach the quarter-finals but were split up due to some differences.

This year, Maneepong and Nipithon have qualified for the World Championships in Guangzhou from Aug 5-11 but their fate depends on an investigation that will be carried out soon.

Maneepong, if found guilty of provocation, may be suspended. He may even be disqualified from the world meet. A heavier penalty awaits Bodin.

If world No. 15 Maneepong-Nipitphon are disqualified from the world meet, it will result in an easier path for Malaysians Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong. Both pairs are expected to meet in the third round of the World Championships.