Decision in Misbun's hand - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - There are only two factors that could lead Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) former junior development director (singles) Datuk Misbun Sidek to return to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

Sports analyst Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli said the main factor was the close relationship between the country's badminton legend and BAM Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria which had been established for a long time.

However, Pekan said that everyone should respect Misbun's decision if the former top men's singles player of the country chooses not to accept the offer made before.

"Accepting the offer from BAM (especially with the intervention of President Tan Sri Norza) or not wanting to return as the junior development director (singles) of ABM is Datuk Misbun's right.

"I think it's difficult for Misbun to make a decision in just a day or two. I believe his heart is still in turmoil, hurt, and disappointed.

"If Misbun accepts the offer again, I believe it's for only two reasons: firstly, out of respect for Tan Sri Norza due to their good relationship in the past," he told Sinar yesterday.

On Wednesday, BAM offered the position back to Misbun to complete his contract until the end of this year.

According to Pekan, the second factor was that his players still needed Misbun's guidance, as he had been with them for a long time, especially in terms of training and playing style.

"The second reason must be because he doesn't want to disappoint the young players he is preparing for the World Junior Championships 2023 in Spokane, Washington, which is less than two months away.

"For me, this is an unfinished mission for Misbun, which needs to be translated into positive results. Perhaps, because of these two main reasons, Misbun is likely to return," he said.

However, Pekan also did not rule out the possibility that Misbun might face other challenges if he accepted BAM's offer to return to serve with the organisation.

"The question of an unpleasant atmosphere may arise after what happened before, if Misbun still has the heart to work there (ABM).

"Possible... but BAM needs to take action to clarify the atmosphere again; that is the most important thing because we don't want the country's players to become victims, regardless of Misbun's decision," he said.