As reigning champions from the last edition held in Thailand in 2013, the Thai ladies – currently ranked 12th in the world – breezed through their initial pool B, beating Chinese Taipei 3-0 on May 20 (18–25,18–25 and 19–25), before brushing aside both Hong Kong 3-0 on May 21 (25–7, 25–6 and 25–10) and Sri Lanka on May 22 (17–25, 9–25 and 4–25).
The impressive initial stage result of 225 to 108 won balls, or a win ratio of 2.083, ensured passage to the quarterfinals, with position to be determined in Pool F play against the likes of South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Kazakhstan.
Yesterday, the Siamese sensation continued with the Thai ladies experiencing little trouble to win all three of their sets against Kazakhstan (25–11, 25–9 and 25–12) with 75 to 32 won points.
Today, however, will be the true test as Thailand takes on South Korea, who have also won all of its matches so far, taking 12 sets and losing only one in its 3-1 Pool-D defeat of Australia on May 21.
Yesterday South Korea impressed in its 3-set win against Chinese Taipei (12–25, 20–25 and 19–25) with 75-51 won points, to set up what is certainly to be the showdown match to watch in Pool F today.
The match between Thailand and South Korea will be broadcast live on Thai Channel 7, starting from 1pm.
All teams in Pools E and F are fighting for advantageous positions in the quarterfinals knockout bracket, which will be contested on May 26.
Hosts China look destined to top Pool E, not likely to see much resistance against other competitors in the Pool – Vietnam, Japan and Iran.
Stay tuned for full results.