A strong performance on the opening day of the group stage saw BAM players ease past their respective opponents from across the states.

Seven players picked up opening wins, comprising four in the boys’ singles and three in the girls’ singles categories, all securing convincing straight-set victories.

In the boys’ singles, Ng Hao Tong recorded a comfortable win over Kelantan’s Muhammad Amir Amsyar (21-7, 21-11), while Wong Yin Heng defeated Kedah’s Ng Chia Tin (21-14, 21-12).

Chong Lee Qian also advanced after overcoming Kuala Lumpur’s Muhammad Noor Hanafi (21-16, 21-13), while Derrick Leung defeated Johor’s Alfred Phua Ze Zuan (21-19, 21-11).

“I’ve played with the same opponent once before, so I was confident throughout the match,” said Derrick.

He added that his coach has been a key source of motivation and support.

In the girls’ singles, Mirza Batrisyia defeated Johor’s Chong Jing (21-11, 21-10). Chua Jing Xuan also progressed with a straight-games victory over Kedah’s Ang Sin Yin.

Annabell Gan overcame Johor’s Gopalakrishnan Shashveeni (21-11, 21-9).

Despite the victory, Annabell felt there was room for improvement in her performance.

“I made a lot of simple mistakes,” she said after the match.

She is determined to improve her movement, shuttle control and reduce unforced errors in her upcoming matches.

Also in action were boys’ doubles pair Teoh Chong Yee-Wong Tze Han, as well as girls’ doubles pairs Leong Hwee Ling-Teoh Min Yi and Auni Fatihin-Tan Jing Er.