Zhang Yi Man and Han Yue from China stormed into the final of Thailand Masters Badminton 2023 setting stage for an all Chinese clash.
Zhang Yi beat Supanida Katethong of Thailand in a thrilling three setter, 15-21, 21-18, 22-20. The Thai couldn’t edge the Chinese in the tight decider despite playing infront of the home crowd.
In the other encounter, Han Yue beat Wen Chi Hsu of Chinese Taipei in straight sets, 21-11, 21-11. The Taiwanese at no point could challenge the Chinese in this one sided clash.
The final match will take place on Sunday where Han Yue enters the arena leading the head to head against Zhang Yi Man by 3-1.
Ng Ka Long Angus sails into the finals
In the men’s singles sector, the 4th seed NG Ka Long Angus from Hongkong defeated Chinese youngster and the sixth seed LI Shi Feng in a tight contest lasting over 64 minutes. The Hongkongese edged Shi Feng, 19-21, 21-8, 21-19. After a close first set, Angus came out strong in the second by winning it in style. The decider went neck to neck but Long’s experience prevailed in the end.
In the other men’s singles semifinal encounter, Lin Chun-Yi caused an upset by defeating the experienced and in-form Chinese, SHI Yu Qi. The Taiwanese won the battle in straight sets 21-15, 21-19. The 23 year old won the first game comfortably but faced firm competition in the second. Lin held his nerves and did not let the Chinese to make a comeback.
The final would mark the first ever encounter between Ng Ka Long and Lin Chun-Yi.
In the other scheduled final matches tomorrow, Korean pair of Baek and Lee will take on Benyapa and Nuntakarn from Thailand for the women’s doubles crown.
In men’s doubles, the Indonesian pair of Leo and Daniel will battle Su Ching and Ye Hong from Chinese Taipei for the title.