KUALA LUMPUR – Thailand opened their Doubles Premier campaign in Group D at the Sepak Takraw World Cup with a straight sets win over Singapore but not before having to weather a mini comeback from our southern neighbours.
Thai duo Seksan Tubtong and Kittiphum Sareebut took the first set easily but struggled in the second against Singapore’s Muhammad Khairilshamy Shamsudin and Zaihirrman Zaharudin.
With the score at 9-7 for the Singaporeans in the second set, the Thai’s called for a timeout and later changed their strategy, with Tanaphon Sapyen coming in for Sareebut.
The change paid off as Thailand clinched a 15-12, 17-15 win over Singapore.
Captain Tubtong said he did not feel any pressure in the second set but struggled to adapt to the surroundings at Titiwangsa Stadium.
“The gym that we train in does not have a ceiling that high but the ceiling in the stadium is really high, which threw me off a little.
“It took some time to get used to the environment in the second set but we had a little luck and were able to win.
“The first game is always difficult but I will try to make the next game more comfortable,” said the 38-year-old.
Tubtong acknowledged that Thailand is a hot favourite to win the title and will do everything to bring glory home.
“If I lose, the people of Thailand will attack me! They will criticise me, saying things like, ‘Seksan is not good’ and all.
“I will try my best to be champion but I know it is not easy,” Tubtong added.
Thailand will next face South Korea in their second Group D match tomorrow at 5pm. – May 18, 2024