Wee Wern feeling the heat in defence of national title

Title contenders: Wee Wern (right) names Rachel Arnold as one of her main rivals in the national meet.

PETALING JAYA: National No. 1 Low Wee Wern is feeling the pressure when she starts her title defence at the National Championship.

The four-time squash champion will only open her campaign in the quarter-finals at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil tomorrow after getting a first-round bye.

“The nationals is a much needed competition. Due to Covid-19, we were forced to take a long break and now everyone’s eager to restart on a high note, ” said Wee Wern.

“I’ve been out for two years due to injury so I know how to deal with the difficulties of coming back and being competitive.

“However, the last six months were frustrating because I’m healthy and ready to play but unfortunately, I couldn’t due to the pandemic.”

The 30-year-old Penangite admitted that there is pressure on her to retain the title and expects stiff challenges from national No. 2 S. Sivasangari and No. 3 Rachel Arn-old.

“Most of the players don’t have any pressure as they are just eager to get back on court, ” added Wee Wern, who is aiming for her fourth national title.

“I started well coming back from my long injury layoff, I had some good results before the virus struck.

“The momentum was good and I was going up the ranking, it will be tough to get back the rhythm but I’ll be ready.”