KUALA LUMPUR: The national squad made a positive start to their Davis Cup, Asia Oceania, Group III campaign after notching a straightforward 3-0 win over Cambodia in Vietnam yesterday.
Ahmed Deedat Abdul Razak delivered the first point in the group A encounter with an easy 6-1, 6-2 win over Delton Kim at the My Dinh Sports Complex in Hanoi.
Christian Didier Chin then secured Malaysia victory with a hard fought 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) win over 2015 Sea Games bronze medalist Kenny Bun.
Syed Agil Syed Naguib-Ashaari Zainal Abidin completed the rout with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Delton Kim-Phalkun Mam in the doubles.
National coach Adam Jaya could not have asked for a better start to the tournament.
"The first tie is always crucial, and it was a good start for our Malaysian team," said Adam, who is assuming the role of team captain for the Davis Cup.
"Deedat played very well and it was a comfortable victory for him.
"On paper, Kenny Bun was always the favourite to win the next match and the team was ready to play the deciding doubles (in anticipation of defeat).
"But Christian pulled off a remarkable win for the team, and as always his fighting spirit was just amazing.
"Agil-Ashaari also enjoyed a comfortable win, but this is just the first tie, and now we have to focus on improving day by day. So wish us luck Malaysia."
The national team have been drawn in group A alongside Cambodia, Vietnam and the Pacific Oceania team, whom they play tonight (Wednesday).
Group B is comprised of Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, Syria and Saudi Arabia.