Jakarta: Indonesia’s legendary men’s doubles coach, Herry Iman Pierngadi told reporters that the Badminton Association of Indonesia or PBSI has not given World No. 1 men’s doubles pair Marcus Fernaldi Gideon/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo any targets at the Malaysia Masters which will be held in Kuala Lumpur from January 15 to January 20.
This was due to Marcus Fernaldi Gideon was still recovering from the neck injury he suffered during the BWF World Tour last December.
“Yes, Marcus’ condition has improved. He and Kevin are good to play at the 2019 Malaysia Masters,” said Pierngadi.
“Last week, someone asked me about Marcus’ condition. I couldn’t confirm that because he was just started training. Today, he was able to do some smashes and there’s no problem with his neck. Therefore, yes, they can play,” added Pierngadi.
However, the coach did appear cautious and said they didn’t set any goals for Gideon/Sukamuljo at Malaysia Masters.
“There is no target set for them at the 2019 Malaysia Masters because this is still the beginning of the year and Marcus is still recovering from his neck injury.”
“We may give them a target at the 2019 Indonesia Masters. But for now, they can treat Malaysia Masters as some sort of warm up tournament,” said Pierngadi again.
After enjoying their Christmas and New Year holidays, the world’s top men’s doubles pair had just returned to training with the Indonesia national team last Thursday.
