• 
• 

Published on December 8, 2007

However, a stern test awaits the hosts in the semi-finals as the Indonesian squad stands in their way to the gold.

The Thai women's team, spearheaded by HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, have their task cut out with the retirement of two champion team members Sujittra Ekemongkholpaisarn and Sathinee Chankrajangwong.

"It's very difficult to keep the title in the women's event as this is not the same team. Our ace player Salakjit Ponsana is a match for the Indonesian No 1, but our opponents have the edge in the other four matches.

"We pin our hopes on Salakjit for a result," said Sakrapee Thongsari, Thai staff coach.

Salakjit's elder brother Boonsak Ponsana carries Thailand's hopes in the men's event.

"Only Boonsak can take reigning Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat to three games, but we rate Boonsak's chances of beating him at 50 per cent.

"Thai No 2 Poompat Sapkulchananart is on par with Sony Dwi Kuncoro. But their men's doubles team is the current world champions," said Sakrapee, former national player.

After training two days at the Gymnasium, the Thai team found themselves troubled by winds. "The winds are very strong here. It's very difficult to control shots," said Saralee Thungthongkam, who teams up with Sudket Prapakamol in the mixed doubles category.

Somporn Suphop

 The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima