Zii Jia downs Naraoka to make All England semifinals

Zii Jia downs Naraoka to make All England semifinals

The world No 4 won 21-9, 10-21, 21-13 to break his recent early round jinx.

Lee Zii Jia has faced criticism for exiting early in four consecutive tournaments. (AP pic)
KUALA LUMPUR:
National men’s top singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia finally broke the early round jinx, as he advanced to the All England semifinals, eliminating rising Japanese star Kodai Naraoka tonight.

After facing criticism for failing to get past the second round in four consecutive tournaments, the 24-year-old started off well at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham, beating Naraoka 21-9 in the first set.

The world No 6 Japanese, who stunned Zii Jia in the first round of the season-opening Malaysia Open, bounced back to secure the second set 21-10.

Zii Jia, the 2021 All England champion, then took an early lead in the decider to win 21-13 after a 67-minute battle.

World No 4 Zii Jia will next face Shi Yu Qi of China, who easily defeated compatriot Weng Hong Yang 21-9, 21-16.

Since winning the Thailand Open in May last year, Zii Jia has not won a title or progressed beyond the second round in other tournaments.

Zii Jia’s 2023 season saw him exit early in all four championships he had participated in.

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