KUALA LUMPUR: National women’s singles head coach Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin has called for greater tactical awareness among his players following encouraging performances at the recent Malaysia Super 100.
The tournament, held at the Indoor Arena, Educity Sports Complex, saw national shuttler and world No. 64 Wong Ling Ching defy expectations by reaching the final, while teammate Siti Zulaikha Azmi advanced to the second round.
Ling Ching’s impressive run, which included several upsets, ended at the hands of Japan’s former world champion Nozomi Okuhara, who prevailed 21-18, 21-11.
Despite the defeat, Iskandar said Ling Ching’s showing was an encouraging sign for Malaysia in rebuilding the women’s singles department.
“Ling Ching’s performance was outstanding. But we saw the difference between her and Okuhara in the quality of strokes.
“We must improve our tactical skills and develop the kind of weapons needed to finish rallies against players of that calibre.”
“We want our players to understand how to earn points against solid opponents. It’s not just about fitness anymore, but about being smarter on court,” said former national player Iskandar who took charge of the women’s singles squad on Oct 1.
Iskandar believes the younger players, including Ling Ching and Siti Zulaikha, possess the potential to challenge higher-ranked opponents with the right exposure and mindset.
“They have the desire to move forward. Our job is to give them the belief that they belong among the best.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
