Badminton

Indonesia retain Asia Team men's title

Alor Star: Indonesia defeated China 3-1 to retain their Asia Team Championships men's gold medal at the Sultan Abdul Halim Stadium on Sunday.

Jonatan Christie started the ball rolling with a 21-16, 17-21, 21-18 win over China's Shi Yuqi before Mohammad Ahsan-Angga Pratama extended Indonesia's lead by overcoming He Jiting-Tan Qiang 21-19, 21-18 in 37 minutes.

However, China reduced the deficit in the second singles match when Qiao Bin defeated Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-12, 11-21, 21-14 in 72 minutes.

Rian Agung Saputro-Hendra Setiawan earned Indonesia's winning point with a comprehensive 21-14, 21-19 victory over Han Chengkai-Zhou Haodong in the second doubles match.

"My win over Shi Yuqi was the key to Indonesia's success today. I was under no pressure during the match. I played patiently and earned points at key moments for the win," said Jonatan.

Japan were crowned champions in the women's event when they defeated China 3-0.

World No 2 Akane Yamaguchi earned Japan's first point when she edged Chen Yufei 21-16, 12-21, 21-14.

Misaki Matsutomo-Ayaka Takahashi then extended Japan lead with a 21-13, 21-16 success over Du Yue-Li Yinhui.

Nozomi Okuhara sealed Japan's victory when she defeated He Bingjiao 19-21, 21-16, 21-10.

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