KUCHING: The 22nd Asian Junior Squash Team Championships concluded on a high note at the Hong Kong Squash Centre, with Malaysia securing silver medals in both the Boys’ and Girls’ categories on Sunday (Feb 16).
In a historic Boys’ Final, top seeds Republic of Korea claimed their first-ever gold, edging out Malaysia in a thrilling encounter.
Sarawakian Harith Danial Jefri fought valiantly for Malaysia, recovering from an opening game loss to win two consecutive games.
However, Joo Young Na of Korea regained control in the latter stages, winning 3-2 (11-6, 8-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-2).
In the second match, Yoo Jeong-uk overcame Nickhileswar Moganasundharam in a five-game battle lasting 68 minutes, clinching a dramatic 6-11, 13-11, 5-11, 11-9, 11-7 victory.
The result saw Korea take home the Boys’ Gold, marking a historic achievement in Asian junior squash.
In the Girls’ Final, Malaysia faced a strong Hong Kong, China side, with the host nation ultimately claiming the gold. Kwong Ena made quick work of Anrie Goh, winning in straight games (11-3, 11-7, 11-6).
Harleein Tan then gave a spirited performance against Cheung Tsz Ching, taking the first game 11-3, but couldn’t maintain her form, with Hong Kong winning the next three games (11-7, 11-8, 11-5) to seal the gold for Hong Kong.
Although Malaysia finished second in both divisions, the national junior squash prospects remain bright with both teams emerging as serious contenders for future championships.
The junior championship took place from Feb 12-16 at the Hong Kong Squash Centre in Hong Kong.
Among some of the distinguished guests for the prize giving ceremony were Asian Squash Federation president Duncan Chiu and World Squash Federation vice president David Mui.
