PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles shuttler Wan Arif Wan Junaidi hopes his new partnership with Mohd Faiq Masawi can develop into a strong combination, with both players being left-handers.
It is rare to see a doubles pair featuring two left-handers, and Arif believes that could give them an edge when they make their debut together at the Malaysian Super 100 in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, starting next Tuesday (Oct 13).
The seventh seeds are scheduled to face China’s Lin Yifan-Yang Jiayi in the first round.
"I think one advantage is that our opponents might get a little confused," said Arif.
"Usually, they face right-right or right-left combinations. But with both of us being left-handed, maybe that can be an advantage for us."
Arif also sees being paired with the younger Faiq as a responsibility rather than a burden.
The pairing was decided after discussions with the coaches, and Arif knows his role is not only to play alongside Faiq but also to help guide the younger player.
"This is also a responsibility given to me by the coaches. They told me to try playing with him and, if possible, guide this junior player so he can experience competing at a higher level.
"I hope he can give his best and not be afraid when he is on court.”
The Malaysia Super 100 is one of three tournaments lined up for the pair, followed by the Indonesian Masters from Oct 20-25 and the Kaohsiung Masters from Nov 10-15.
"For these tournaments, we just want to give it a try first, and I also want to improve my own game," said Arif.
The 24-year-old admitted the changes in partners had left him unsettled.
Arif was previously paired with Yap Roy King, with the pair reaching a career-high world No. 16.
They were later split, with Arif partnering Kang Khai Xing, but their four tournaments together at the China Open, Taiwan Open, Korean Masters and China Masters all ended in first round defeats.
Arif-Khai Xing also missed several tournaments in Europe this month as their ranking was not high enough to gain entry.
But after taking time to reflect and seeking advice from those around him, Arif has come to accept the situation and is determined to give his best with his new partner.
"Of course, I felt unsettled and thought about it a lot. But after thinking it through, I realised this is not something that only happens to me. Other players go through it too," he added.
"I also didn’t keep it to myself. I spoke to the coaches and senior players about my situation, and they gave me a lot of encouragement."
