KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian professional shuttler, Arif Latif is ready to fight hard, as he and his partner Azriyn Ayub gear up for the Osaka International Challenge, opening their campaign against Japanese Kazuhiro Ichikawa-Daiki Umayahara on Thursday.
According to Arif, both he and Azriyn must remain focused in every match, as Japan have opted to field younger shuttlers.
"Tomorrow, we will take to the court for the first round, and I believe it's an open affair. Only difference would be experience," said Arif on Wednesday.
The last time the 28-year-old competed in an international tournament, was at the Hong Kong Open last year, when he partnered older brother Razif, while the last time Arif partnered Azriyn on the international stage was at the 2016 Orleans Masters in Paris.
"I have never felt awkward partnering Azriyn, even if we haven't played on the international stage in such a long time. When I was based in Japan, I used to train a lot in men's doubles.
"Having said that, Azriyn and I understand each other really well," added Arif, who together with Azriyn, finished second at the National Championships last month.
When asked if he was already thinking of making the Thomas Cup squad in May, the Seremban-born, said: "I want to first focus on winning, and to be at a much higher level, before joining BAM.
“However, if I am given a chance, I will do my best for my team and country."