KUALA LUMPUR: Up-and-coming Sanjay Jeeva and C. Ameeshenraj have earned spots in the Podium Programme following their decent performances at the World Team Squash Championships (WTSC) in Tauranga, New Zealand.
Malaysia, powered by three backup players, defeated Australia 2-0 to finish 11th in the WTSC today.
Bristol-based Sanjay got the ball rolling for Malaysia by overcoming Dylan Molinaro 11-2, 11-7, 5-11, 11-7 in 43 minutes.
National No. 2 Addeen Idrakie defeated Rhys Dowling 5-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-9 to give Malaysia an unassailable 2-0 lead.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) coaching director Major (rtd) S. Maniam said Sanjay and United States-based Ameeshenraj were outstanding in New Zealand.
"Although they have a bright future, they must work harder to achieve the next level. Sanjay and Ameeshenraj will receive better support now that they are in the Podium Programme," said Maniam.
On Malaysia's performance in the WTSC, Maniam said: "We fielded our second team, and the players performed well to finish 11th.
"They achieved our target of finishing top 12," he added.