Badminton News: It was a tough draw but Malaysia couldn’t have asked for better as they escaped arch-rivals Indonesia, China, Japan and South Korea in the quarter-finals of the Asian Mixed Team Badminton Championships.

Malaysia, who clinched top spot in the Round of 16 after dominating Group C, will face defending champions Thailand in the last eight in Yogyakarta today.

However, Thailand are not as strong as the 2019 side led by current world number 4 Kunlavut Vitidsarn who won the title and were beaten 5-0 by South Korea in Group D.

Team manager Joanne Quay said it was a reasonable draw considering the high standards of most teams entering the tournament this time around.

“It’s a good draw. For many countries to play a draw against Thailand is considered good,” Joanne said.

“Winning matches in the group stage has boosted the confidence of the players. We hope to continue this momentum for tomorrow’s game (today).”

Malaysia are in the same group as Indonesia and could face the hosts if they beat Thailand today.

Indonesia, who beat favorites China 4-1 in their last Group A game yesterday, will face India while South Korea will also face Taiwan in the quarter-finals later today.

The clash of the last eight will be between Japan and China and it would be a shame to see one of the favorites get knocked out early.

Group A Indonesia beat China 4-1. Group D Thailand beat the United Arab Emirates 5-0. n The Asian Junior Team Championship 2023 quarter-final match, namely Malaysia v Thailand; India versus India; South Korea versus Taiwan; China versus Japan.

Article Tags: Malaysia, Thailand, Asian Junior Championships 2023