Chinese shuttlers keep up momentum on Malaysia Open Day 3

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese shuttlers maintained their momentum on Day 3 of the Malaysia Open on Thursday with a string of victories here at the Axiata Arena.

In the men's singles round of 16, Li Shifeng overcame H. S. Prannoy of India in a grueling match lasting one hour and 22 minutes, while his compatriot Shi Yuqi knocked out fellow Chinese Lu Guangzu.

In the women's singles round of 16, Wang Zhiyi easily outplayed Chiu Pin-chian of Chinese Taipei 21-17, 21-13 while Han Yue beat Malvika Bansod of India 21-18, 21-11.

Men's doubles duo Chen Boyang and Liu Yi outplayed Chiu Hsiang-chieh and Wang Chi-lin of Chinese Taipei 21-17, 16-21, 21-15 to reach the next round.

Women's doubles pair Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning outclassed Malaysia's Vivian Hoo and Lim Chiew Sien 21-6, 21-5, while their compatriots Li Yijing and Luo Xumin overcame Benyapa Aimsaard and Nuntakarn Aimsaard of Thailand to advance.

Mixed doubles pairs Cheng Xing/Zhang Chi and Feng Yanzhe/Huang Dongping reached the next round.

The Malaysia Open runs through Sunday. ■