With a very unusual line up, the Korean Uber Cup team bowed down to hosts China, in spite of an unexpected victory in the first women’s doubles.

There was no doubt that Korea wanted to keep some force for their coming match against Germany. They probably thought it was useless to try to give it all in a group match against China, who still look invincible. And their gamble paid off.

First, because it gave the opportunity to some very young and unknown players to gain some exposure and experience – one must learn far more from a match at this level of the Uber Cup against the host China than from months of practising. Secondly, because they showed China and the rest of the world that they had some young talents coming through and should be counted on for a medal in this competition. Last but not least, it was a good opportunity for their leader Ra Kyung Min to take a break and keep some energy for the rest of the competition.

Yet in spite of this line up which somehow resembled one of a back up team, Korea managed to clinch one point, thanks to Hwang Yu Mi and Lee Hyo Jung (pictured). The first is still a young player, with her first international exposure here in 2000 as a junior, while Lee Hyo Jung’s athletic abilities are reminiscent of Ra, not only in her powerful smashes, but also in her good vision of the game. And the two Koreans beat the Chinese first doubles Wei Yili and Zhang Jiewen with an unexpected score of 0/7 – 7/1 – 7/5 – 7/0.

The look on Li Yongbo’s face after they finished their match and waited patiently for their coach to comment was clear enough that he wasn’t happy at all. Heads down, the two girls listened to a quick but efficient sermon before heading back to the changing room.

A sermon that all other Chinese players probably didn’t get to hear, as they all secured their victory in three short games. Gong Ruina spent 16 minutes on court while Dai Yun raced through hers in 10. The second doubles also left no chance – nor points – to scratch pair Kim Kyeung Ran and Kwon Hee Sook.

report and pictures by Raphael Sachetat