Indonesian Badminton Players Are Confident To Reach Target At APG 2022 Even Without Leani, Who’s On Maternity Leave

Leani Ratri Oktila (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian para-badminton team is optimistic that it can achieve its target of six gold, four silver and four bronze medals, despite appearing without the Indonesian para-badminton Queen Leani Ratri Oktila in the 2022 ASEAN Para Games.

Leani, who won two gold medals at the Tokyo 2022 Paralympics, has been ruled out as she is recovering after giving birth.

Even so, as a reliable sport, para-badminton is optimistic that it can contribute to Indonesia's medal coffers in the 2022 ASEAN Para Games.

"The target is indeed given to every sport. We, the para-badminton team, have a target of six gold, four silver and four bronze medals," said para-badminton coach Yunita Ambar Wulandari as quoted by Antara, Sunday.

The six gold medals are expected to come from Ukun Rukaendi (single male SL3), Fredy Setiawan (single male SL4), Deva Anrimusthi (single male SU5), and Khalimatus Sadiyah (single female SL4).

Meanwhile, the other two gold medals came from the doubles sector via Fredy Setiawan/Dwiyoko (men's doubles SL3-SL4) and Deva Anrimusthi/Hafizh Briliansyah Prawiranegara (men's doubles SU5).

Yunita revealed that the status of the host will provide its own advantages for the Indonesian badminton team at the 2022 ASEAN Para Games. Moreover, they have long held Pelatnas in Bengawan City.

"The para-badminton training center is in Solo. As the host, we may be superior in adapting to the environment and the venue of the match. We have also practiced more at the venue where the match will be used. So, the adaptation can be better prepared," he said.