CHINA clinched the women’s badminton team trophy for the ninth time at the Asian Games, sweeping aside Thailand 3-0 in the final yesterday.

    China has collected all the women’s team titles but one in 1994 when the badminton powerhouse failed to clinch any title at the Asiad in Hiroshima, Japan.

    World No. 1 Wang Xin staved off a tough challenge from 15-year-old Ratchanok Intanon, winning 20-22, 21-17, 21-14.

    “I was prepared but did not expect the match to be so tough, I think I was a little nervous,” said Wang, who just turned 24.

    For Ratchanok, there was nothing to lose against a strong Chinese opponent.

    “I’m very satisfied with my performance as I tried my best. I didn’t think I could take it to three games,” said Ratchanok, who replaced Salakjit Ponsana as the first singles.

    Wang Shixian extended China’s lead to 2-0 by beating Nitchaon Jindapol 21-13, 21-12.

    “You think I am not the nervous type, but I was really under stress in the match,” said the 20-year-old Wang.

    Jiang Yanjiao made her first appearance at these Games and secured the win for China after defeating S. Taerattanachai 21-15, 21-10.

    (SD-Agencies)