PETALING JAYA: Youngster Clarissa San faces a daunting task as she prepares to replace injured world champion Toh Ee Wei in the mixed doubles but national head coach Nova Widianto has no doubts about the teenager’s ability to step up.
Nova believes the 19-year-old is well equipped to fill Ee Wei’s shoes, citing her similar playing style and strong determination.
Clarissa is set to make her debut alongside Chen Tang Jie, 28, at the Japan Open from July 14-19 and is eager to make an immediate impact.
“Eei Wei and Clarissa are both playmakers and possess similar personalities on the court,” said Nova after a training session at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) yesterday.
Clarissa had previously achieved a personal best ranking of world No. 101 with her partner Datu Anif Isaac Datu Asrah.
Despite Clarissa’s young age, Nova had only praise for her bravery and ambition.
“While Ee Wei is more mature, Clarissa has the desire and is resolute in seizing this opportunity to prove herself,” added Nova.
Nova also highlighted how Tang Jie has adapted well to his new role as leader and mentor within the partnership.
“He is demonstrating greater initiative and has the drive to go the extra mile in training, which is commendable to see.”
Meanwhile, the 24-year-old Ee Wei has travelled to Melbourne, Australia, for specialised treatment to recover from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in her left knee, which she suffered at the Singapore Open quarter-finals last month.
Given the typical recovery time frame for such an injury, it is highly improbable that Ee Wei will be able to return to the court to defend her mixed doubles world title with Tang Jie in New Delhi this August.
“We hope for a miracle, but if she does not have a swift recovery, there is no chance,” added Nova.
