SHAH ALAM: The up and coming Jacky Kok hopes to be included in the Malaysian team for the Thomas Cup in Bangkok in May.
Today, the 20-year-old delivered the winning point for Malaysia who thumped Kazakhstan 5-0 in their second Group B tie of the Badminton Asia Team Championships at the Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam.
Jacky's 21-8, 21-4 drubbing of Makhsut Tajibullayev in the third singles not only secured Malaysia the tie, but also confirmed his team a spot in Saturday's semi-finals.
"Firstly, I would want to thank my coaches for giving me the opportunity to play in this tournament. I took my chances well and gave it my all," said Jacky.
"I'm also happy to be able to contribute a point for Malaysia.
"This tournament has taught me a lot, especially in terms of how to handle the pressure, and on court situations.
"I still have a long way to go, and so much more to learn, but I hope to be included for the Thomas Cup squad. Of course, anything can happen from now until then, so I'll take it one step at a time," added Jacky, who won the Swedish Open last month.
Earlier, Malaysia drew first blood through Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin, who scored a 21-11, 21-12 win over Artur Nizayov before Lim Chong King made it 2-0 with a comfortable 21-11, 21-11 win over Khaitmurat Kulmatov. Jacky then sealed the tie in just 20 minutes, before Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Win inflicted more damage on the Kazakh team with a 21-5, 21-5 hammering of Jangir Ibrayev-Ilya Lysenko in the first doubles.
Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani made it five out of five for Malaysia, when they thumped Andrey Shalagin-Makhsut 21-8, 21-4.
Malaysia sit on top of the group, with one more match against Japan tomorrow.