KUALA LUMPUR: The national men’s back-up doubles pair silenced their critics in style by contesting an all-Malaysian final at the Sri Lanka International Series.
Top seeds Mohd Fazriq Razif-Bryan Jeremy Goonting battled past their second-seeded teammates Goh Boon Zhe-Wong Vin Sean in a thrilling contest, winning 17-21, 21-16, 21-18 after an intense one-hour showdown St Joseph’s College.
It was also the first title won by the men’s doubles back-up department this year.
As champions, Fazriq-Bryan took home the winner’s trophy along with a cash prize of US$400 (RM1,765.92). Runners-up Boon Zhe-Vin Sean received US$240 (RM1,059.52), in line with the tournament’s International Series status.
The win was particularly satisfying as it made up for their disappointment at the same venue last week. In the Sri Lanka International Challenge, the duo suffered a shock first-round loss to unheralded Taiwanese pair Huang Tsung-i-Lin Ting-yu despite being the top seeds.
Their triumph also served as a strong response to Aaron Chia’s recent remarks. The national men’s doubles ace had urged the younger shuttlers to raise their game and seize opportunities in international tournaments after several Malaysian pairs suffered early exits.
