CHAMPIONS and top seeds Malaysia have declared themselves as underdogs in the mixed team Asian Junior Championships which start at the Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara, today.

Team manager How Kim Tho said it will be tough to win as the Malaysian team consists mostly inexperienced shuttlers.

"We are the top seeds only because most of our players have ranking points by virtue of competing in tournaments," said Kim Tho yesterday.

"I will be happy if they can reach the semi-finals. However, it can only be achieved if the team win their group."

Malaysia are drawn in Group A with Japan, India and Iraq.
The team will play two ties today against India (9am) and Iraq (4pm).

Malaysia, provided they beat India and Iraq, will need to beat the group's second seeds Japan, tomorrow to ensure easier opponents in the last eight.

Malaysia's top shuttlers are Kuan Kam Chuan, Syawal Ismail, Iskandar Zulkarnian (boys' singles), Mak Hee Chun-Teo Kok Siang, Chooi Kah Ming-Yeoh Choong Yee (boys doubles), Tee Jing Yi (girls' singles), Ong Boon Hui-Chong Vee Vian (girls' doubles), Chooi Kah Ming-Ng Hui Ern and Teo Kok Siang-Sannatasha Saniru (mixed doubles).