Malaysia drawn to meet Indonesia in Axiata Cup semi-finals

Defending champions Malaysia have been drawn to meet Indonesia while Thailand will face All-Star Asia in the semi-finals of the 2014 Axiata Cup at Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium, Cheras on Saturday.

The Axiata Cup is the richest team badminton event which offers a lucrative prize money of US$1 million (about RM3.4 million).

The Indonesians topped the standings with 24 points and All-Star Asia finished in second placing after the conclusion of the preliminary round in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Indonesia are the first seed while All-Star Asia are the second seed.

Malaysia completed their campaign in fourth placing with 17 points.

"We are rather unfortunate to face Indonesia in the semi-finals. However, it will be an exciting match.

"I believe the players will rise to the occasion and put their defeat against the Indonesians behind and play much better in front of the home fans," said national coach Rashid Sidek.

Indonesia's head coach, Ariyono Minaret added that it would not be easy for the 2012 champions as the Malaysians will have the full force of local fans throwing their support behind them.

"We will be playing in a total different environment here in Kuala Lumpur.

So, it will be hard to describe the outcome. But one thing is for sure, it will be a tough battle all the way," he said.

The first semi-finals match between Indonesia and Malaysia will be played at 3 pm followed by the second-semi-finals between 2013 runners-up Thailand and All-Star Asia at 6 pm.

The final will be held on Sunday.