The Thai men's team, seeking a hat-trick in the Asian Games, rested their best player, Suebsak Phunsueb, who is credited with inventing the "horse serve", in their opening match against the Koreans in Group A.

The first regu saw Thailand, powered by hard-hitting Sakol Jandoung, grab a 21-11 21-12 win. Pamomporn Aiemsa-ard, Somporn Jaisinghol and Singha Somsakul widened the gap to 2-0 for the Kingdom by beating the Koreans 21-14 21-10 in the second regu.

Korea struck back in the third regu, hoping to make amends for the team's two straight losses. However, the Thai smashers continued their superb form in allowing just 27 points, the highest among their three sides, to win the third 21-16 21-11, helping Thailand beat Korea 3-0.

"Four years ago, we emerged as the Asian Games champions in Busan, South Korea. I think we are still well-prepared to defend our title here," Suebsak said.

Meanwhile, the Thai women's team, who had already outclassed South Korea on the previous day, continued their winning streak yesterday, hammering underdogs India in the triple-team contest in Group X.

The team got off to an aggressive start to win the one-sided first regu 21-5 21-5. Nitinadda Kaewkamsai was instrumental in the Kingdom's 21-4 21-4 win in the second regu. The third regu was lop-sided, as the Thai team overwhelmed their Indian challengers with exceptional smashing techniques, allowing only six points to win 21-2, 21-4.

With the win, the Thai women have booked a semi-final berth in the Doha Games. Their chances of retaining the title remain their brightest ever.

Preechachan Wiriyanupappong

The Nation

Doha