Asian Games 2018: ‘devil’s home’ in Jakarta a challenge for China’s badminton stars
Revamped Istora Gelora Bung Karno venue is small and airy but China’s badminton squad are still confident of Asian Games glory in Indonesia
China’s badminton singles coach Xia Yuze has described the Asian Games venue as the “devil’s home” because of its confined space and powerful air conditioners that may interfere with the shuttlecock.
The Istora Gelora Bung Karno in the main Jakarta Convention Centre complex has been refurbished for the Asian Games badminton competition and has a capacity of more than 7,100.
However Xia said the breeze from the air cons will affect all players in the tournament but it is something they must get used to, having had the benefit of playing at the same venue during the Indonesian Open just last month.
“This venue is the ‘devil’s home’, and we have mentioned it before,” Xia told mainland media. “It is really different from other venues. The small space will be for all players but it will certainly have an impact on them.
“The weather is damp and hot in Jakarta so the air conditioners in the venue will be bigger. But we are familiar with Indonesia and have played in the Open every year.”