KUALA LUMPUR: Fans should not question the move by the BA of Malaysia (BAM) in selecting Liew Daren for the upcoming Asian Games as the independent shuttler has the ability to lead the squad and also finish on the podium.
Former international Ong Ewe Hock said Daren has matured as a player after joining the AirAsia Badminton Academy.
“Daren used to succumb to pressure in the past, but he is a different player now.
“He has matured and is currently playing his best badminton, and he has proved it in recent tournaments.
“It is not easy to be professional as Daren needs to do everything on his own. I think this factor has made him stronger and more determined,” Ewe Hock, who is the Serdang Badminton Club coach.
Ewe Hock, 47, who is best remembered for being part of the Malaysian team that won bronze medals at the 1994 (Hiroshima) and 2002 (Busan) Asian Games, said BAM made the right move by including Daren for Asiad in replacement for Lee Chong Wei, who is ill.
Daren was selected based on his bronze medal achievement at the recent World Championships in Nanjing.
“BAM did a good thing by selecting Daren. I believe he will shine in the Asian Games,” Ewe Hock added.
Meanwhile, former World No 1 Roslin Hashim also echoed similar sentiments by stating that Daren needs to prepare well for this mission as the Asian Games is bigger than the world meet.
“He needs to be physically and mentally ready as Asia are the dominant force in badminton.
“I hope he can maintain his good momentum from the world meet in Indonesia,” said Roslin.
Daren, the World No 27, will lead Malaysia’s charge in the men’s singles and team events.