Sticking together: National men’s doubles shuttlers Kang Khai Xing (left) and Aaron Tai want more time to prove partnership. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
PETALING JAYA: World junior men’s doubles champions Aaron Tai-Kang Khai Xing believe it is still too early for them to be split, even though their results this year have been far from encouraging.
Men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi had earlier reminded the younger pairs in the national camp to step up their performances or risk being separated.
However, Khai Xing hopes that he and Aaron will be given more time together, believing that their challenge are only temporary and can be overcome.
Since winning the world junior title in Nanchang last October, Aaron and Khai Xing have struggled to adapt to the demands of senior-level competitions.
This year alone, they have featured in 11 tournaments, most of which ended in early-round exits, leading to suggestions that the pair should be split in order to help them progress faster with new partners.
“I think we’re still adapting to senior-level tournaments, and each time we compete, we just want to give our best regardless of who we play against.
“Our main goal is to build our confidence,” said Khai Xing.
“Losing can be both a good and a bad thing. The positive side is that it helps us identify our weaknesses.
“I don’t think I’m ready to be split from Aaron yet because we believe we can be better than before, although we still need to improve our communication on court.”
Khai Xing also described Aaron as his best partner, saying their strong bond extends beyond the court, where their close friendship has helped build better understanding in matches.
“He (Aaron) understands my personality well. Whenever I have a problem, he’s the one I turn to.
“I can talk to him about anything, and he always understands me,” he added.
The world No. 64 pair will have the chance to prove they still have their winning touch when they compete in the Malaysia Super 100 in Iskandar Puteri, starting on Tuesday.
The fourth seeds will open their campaign against fellow Malaysians Lau Yi Sheng-Lim Tze Jian in the first round.
“We’ll be heading to Johor, and since it’s a home tournament, we definitely want to produce our best results,” said Khai Xing.
