Iskandar: Playing during Ramadhan is tough, but worth it

BANGKOK: Having to play in the Thomas Cup during Ramadhan is a challenge, but for Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin, it is all worth it.

On Monday, the 27-year-old delivered Malaysia's final point in the 5-0 drubbing of Russia in a Group D tie when he overcame Rodion Alimov 21-9, 21-12 at the IMPACT Arena here in Muang Thong Thani.

"It's definitely a struggle, but what matters more is the sincerity of the heart," said Iskandar.

"As you know, the training courts here are extremely warm, so it's really a struggle for us. However, you know it's all worth it when you see your team doing well in the competition.

"Another struggle of course is the fact that it's so hard to find ‘halal’ food around here.”

Malaysia play African champions Algeria on Tuesday, but it is the match against Denmark on the following day that will determine the group winners.

"If I play in the third singles against Denmark, I will face Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus or Jan Jorgensen. Both of them are equally good, so we have to wait and see.

"I will still have to fight for the spot with teammate Leong Jun Hao," added Iskandar.

Like Malaysia, Denmark also thrashed Algeria 5-0 in their first Group D tie on Monday. Only the top two teams will reach the last eight stage.