Tokyo: The new format for the deaf bowling team event due to be introduced at the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics is expected to test the national bowling squad, team coach Tay Teck Kheng said. He added that the new rules demanded uniform performances and high accuracy from all team members without giving room for any mistakes, which would affect the entire team.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the World Format will be used in the competition. Coach Tay mentioned that the old format offered a better chance of success due to the structure of singles, doubles, and team events. In contrast, the new format requires each player to play only two bowls per game, making it challenging. Tay emphasized the importance of practicing spare throws to cover for strikes that may not be achieved, underscoring the rigorous training the team is undergoing.
The Malaysian Deaf Sports Association (MSDeaf) has maintained its three-gold medal target for the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics, aiming for two in badminton and one in bowling. Tay Teck Kheng expressed confidence in the national bowling team's participation in all seven events, with a particular focus on the men's team event as a potential gold medal opportunity.
Tay anticipates that South Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be strong competitors due to their international experience. He noted that South Korea has strong players, as observed in the Asia Pacific Games, while UAE players enhance their skills by competing in tournaments like the Malaysian Open and Sarawak Open, which feature both deaf and hearing participants.