National squash coach Ajaz Azmat says Sanjay Jeeva and Duncan Lee are being monitored for the 2026 Asian Games after strong SEA Games performances.
NATIONAL squash head coach Ajaz Azmat believes several players from Malaysia’s SEA Games Thailand 2025 squad have a strong chance of earning places in the national team for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Ajaz said men’s singles gold medallist Sanjay Jeeva and silver medallist Duncan Lee are among those being closely monitored.
He cited their encouraging performances at the SEA Games and growing consistency on the international circuit.
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“Yes, there is a chance for Sanjay Jeeva and Duncan Lee because they are ranked second and fourth respectively among Malaysian players based on the PSA World Rankings,” he said.
“Possibly one of them could be selected for the Asian Games, either in the individual or mixed doubles events.”
The Pakistani coach added that players not part of the SEA Games squad, including Ameeshenraj Chandaran and Mohammad Syafiq Kamal, are also in contention.
He noted that final selections will be made closer to the 2026 Asian Games.
Based on the PSA World Rankings, Ng Eain Yow is currently Malaysia’s top-ranked player at 17th.
He is followed by Sanjay in 60th, Ameeshenraj in 80th, Duncan in 92nd and Mohammad Syafiq in 126th.
The 2026 Asian Games will be held from Sept 4 to Oct 4 next year.
Ajaz said Malaysia’s strong performance at the SEA Games reflected the emergence of a new generation of players.
He noted the team’s clean sweep of all four gold medals demonstrated the depth of talent within the national setup.
“I am confident they will continue to progress to the next level in the future,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ajaz expressed confidence the current crop would be ready for future SEA Games challenges.
He said they would meet the targets set by the National Sports Council.
Apart from Sanjay, Malaysia’s other gold medal winners were Noor Ainaa Amani Ampandi in the women’s singles.
Harith Danial Jefri and Sehveettrraa Kumar won the mixed doubles gold.
Harith Danial and Low Wa Sern secured the men’s doubles title.
The SEA Games Thailand 2025, which began on Dec 9, concludes today. – Bernama
