Youngsters should be given more opportunities to play, says Lin Dan – Badminton News
The badminton king Lin Dan believes young shuttlers should be given more chances to prove their mettle in the arena as he was referring to spirited Malaysian player Daren Liew.
Chinese ace declared the encounter with Daren his best in Thomas Cup Finals as the youngster stunned him in first segment of show and then took game all the way to three sets.
Lin Dan admired his challenger’s craft and stated that young campaigners like Daren should be fielded regularly to provide them an opportunity to make an impact at international level.
He said, "They (young players) should be given more opportunities to play and prove their capability, only then will there be hope in the badminton arena."
Both players locked horns in the quarter-finals of Thomas Cup 2012 and made this contest memorable by fighting for 55 minutes.
The Malaysian lad Daren was promoted to first Singles campaigner after maestro Lee Chong Wei’s sudden departure due to ankle injury.
However, World Number 33 shuttler put a decent fight against World and Olympic champion and snatched opening game with a notable margin of 21-17.
World Number two Lin Dan proved his supremacy by blowing his rival hard in final two games. He levelled match score by registering concluding total of 21-9 in second set and then sealed the victory with even more impressive figure of 21-5 in decider.
Though, inexperienced Daren had to surrender but he walked tall despite of this defeat. He earned great deal of admiration not only from crowd but also from his superior competitor.
The Chinese maestro targeted Malaysian media who only turns on camera lights for Chong Wei and asserted that they should promote their youngsters also.
Lin Dan said, "The media only gives attention to (Datuk) Lee Chong Wei while there are other younger players who should be highlighted."
Meanwhile, he also vowed to stay focused for upcoming London Olympics. He looked determined to utilise his experience and brilliance against every contender to defend his title in mega event.
Lin Dan is expected to enjoy a smooth ride to victory as his World Number one nemesis Chong Wei is struggling to get back on his feet.
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