Ong Zhen Yi shrugged off some stiff challenge from compatriot Sean Ngu Ze Xi to make the second round draw of the Men’s Singles PETRONAS Malaysia International Series 2024 here at Educity Indoor Stadium in Johor.
The 20-year-old Penangite, who stuttered in the final of the Men’s Singles at this year’s SUKMA, was in control throughout the half hour duel in the Round of 32 before emerging 21-17, 21-16 on top.
Zhen Yi’s opponent in the next round will be Joel Tan, who did not struggle too much against Zhao Yansong from New Zealand in their Round of 64 encounter.
It took Joel just 28 minutes to romp past Yansong 21-10, 21-15.
Other notable result saw unseeded B. Pravin from Malaysia getting the better of 11th seeded Singaporean Lee Zong Han for his place in the second round of the Men’s Singles.
However, Pravin was made to work hard for his win when he was stretched to three set before emerging victorious 21-14, 12-21, 21-14 in just over 40 minutes.
Pravin will face countryman Mohd Shazlan Muhammad Thaqif tomorrow following the latter’s 21-12, 21-19 victory over Ali Marhanif from Brunei Darussalam.
In the meantime, Teo Wei Jun’s hope of keeping the Malaysian flag flying fell short when he had to retire after just six minutes on court due to injuries.
Wei Jun was up against the tournament’s second seed Rasindu Hendahewa from Sri Lanka and had to pull out when he was trailing 6-11.
