Thailand out for revenge against Malaysia after SEA Games disappointment

On guard: Sepak takraw players undergo training ahead of the Asian Games. – Bernama

PETALING JAYA: Thailand’s sepak takraw team are out to set the records straight against Malaysia at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games after their disappointing campaign at last year’s SEA Games in Bangkok.

And that could spell danger for Malaysia who are hoping to win a gold again since finishing top at the 2018 edition in Indonesia.

The Thai powerhouse is expected to field their strongest line-up from Sept 20-Oct 3 at Paloma Mizuho Arena.

The Thais had lost to the national men’s regu team in Bangkok last December and Malaysia’s head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun identified them as the biggest threat to their gold medal ambitions.

“Thailand will, in my view, come with their strongest line-up because they will certainly want to bounce back after their failure at the SEA Games,” said Jais.

Jais said Malaysia’s preparation had been good although they have yet to reach the level of performance expected ahead of the Games.

“We are ready to take on the challenge against the Thais, but we do not want to put too much pressure on the players,” said Jais.

“Right now, the most important thing is to perform well because without a good performance, it will be difficult for any team to achieve success.”