KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Shevon Lai has credited her partner and husband, Goh Soon Huat, for their stellar form over the past few months.
The veteran pair started the year strongly, reaching the semi-finals of the Malaysia Open last week.
They continued their fine run by advancing to the second round of the India Open by overcoming Indonesia's Rinov Rivaldy and Lisa Ayu Kusumawati 21-17, 21-17 at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Soon Huat-Shevon will now face Japan's Yuta Watanabe-Arisa Higashino in the next round.
The Japanese pair defeated world No. 71 Wong Tien Ci-Lim Chiew Sien 21-17, 21-15.
Soon Huat-Shevon have been delivering consistent performances since September last year, including finishing runners-up at the China Open.
They also made the semi-finals at the Arctic Open, Kumamoto Masters and the World Tour Finals.
Despite their recent success, Shevon admitted she is not entirely satisfied with her form, praising Soon Huat for his good form and support during matches.
"Today, I took a little more time than usual to adapt to the conditions here. However, my husband did a great job covering for my shortcomings," Shevon told the Badminton World Federation.
"I think I need to spend more time warming up before matches to better adjust to the conditions.
"I have to give credit to Soon Huat — he's been doing a fantastic job controlling all areas of the court."
Shevon also admitted that she needs to improve her consistency.
"I have to keep going and find ways to improve my consistency. We'll discuss and prepare for the next match as I'm not entirely satisfied with my game today."
Commenting on their win against the newly paired Rinov-Lisa Ayu, Soon Huat said their experience played a crucial role.
"They are a new partnership, and it's their first tournament, so perhaps they are still adjusting their gameplay.
I think we did a good job, and our experience made the difference," said Soon Huat.