PETALING JAYA: Fielding a scratch pair at a major event like the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games may be a gamble, but it could prove to be a masterstroke by the coaching team if they go on to win gold.
Men’s doubles shuttler Aaron Chia believes teaming up with a new partner does not weaken Malaysia’s medal chances.
Aaron, who will be making his second appearance at the Asiad, will partner Tee Kai Wun.
He feels that their unfamiliar partnership could work to their advantage as most of their rivals have yet to get a good read on how they play together.
“Yes, we are going there as a scratch pair and as underdogs. I think we can play more freely and with less pressure,” said Aaron.
“Of course, we have hopes too. We hope we can at least win a medal for Malaysia. The most important thing is to give our best first.
“Maybe the way Kai Wun and I play is a little different from how Wooi Yik and I play because with Kai Wun, we rely more on our individual strengths.”
The Aaron-Kai Wun combination also brings back memories of Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong’s remarkable run at the 2006 Asian Games, where they won gold shortly after being paired together.
Aaron admitted the former national No. 1 pair’s achievement is an inspiration, but said they cannot afford to dwell too much on the past.
“I think the most important thing is to give our best in every match. Whatever happens, we just have to go out there and do our best,” he added.
However, Aaron-Kai Wun could face a tough draw in Aichi-Nagoya as they will be unseeded.
They will be joined in the men’s doubles by former world No. 1 pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani.
