AJC 2023: Adrian/Felisha Wins, Indonesia Leads over China

– Mixed doubles Adrian Pratama/Felisha Alberta Nathaniel Pasaribu defeated the Chinese pair, Zhu Yi Jun/Huang Ke Xin, and brought Indonesia ahead, 1-0, in the Group A phase of the Badminton Asia Junior Championships (AJC) 2023.

Playing at the Amongraga Sports Hall, Yogyakarta, Sunday (9/7/2023), Adrian/Felisha defeated the Chinese doubles in a three-set battle with 21-16, 23-25, and 21-10.

In this match Adrian/Felisha admitted that they actually played comfortably in the first game when they were able to lead with a score of 21-16.

However, after winning in the first game, Adrian/Felisha’s game seemed to be less focused at the end of the match, so the opponent forced their way settings and finally had to admit the superiority of the representatives of the Bamboo Curtain country with a score of 23-25.

Luckily, in the deciding game, Adrian/Felisha managed to get back up to finally close the game with a 21-10 lead in 1 hour and 11 minutes.

“I’m grateful to be able to play well in this match. We tried to be consistent throughout the game by not making too many unforced errors. That is our key to be able to win this game,” said Felisha.

“In the first game we have found the best form of play. When we were far ahead in the second game, we relaxed after getting too confident. Luckily we were able to anticipate that and win this match,” said Adrian.

Adrian/Felisha’s victory is expected to increase the confidence of his colleagues to be able to contribute points.

In fact, Adrian/Felisha’s opponents will not be easy, considering that both Zhu Yi Jun and Huang Ke Xin played well at the 2022 BWF World Junior Championships.

It was recorded that Zhu at that time became the champion in Spain when he partnered with Liu Sheng Shu. As for Huang came out as runner up when paired with Liao Pin Yi.

Seeing the opponents they faced, Adrian/Felisha tried to play relentlessly to be able to contribute the opening points for the Indonesian badminton team.

The Red-White squad had the opportunity to widen their position when the second match lost Mutiara Ayu Puspitasari’s women’s singles. The 2022 Indonesia International Series champion will face China’s women’s singles, Xu Wen Jing.

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