China's Ma Lin keen to succeed in Doha

BEIJING, Nov 21 (Reuters) China men's table tennis world number two Ma Lin has said he will take the fight to his rivals at the Asian Games in Qatar despite feeling the pressure of expectations, local media reported today.

Ma will carry China's hopes at Doha after his compatriot and world number one Wang Liqin was omitted from the squad to rest and allow the team to blood new talent.

''This time, I'm the oldest and most experienced player in the team. The whole team is looking at me. I can not afford to make any mistakes,'' the 26-year-old told the Beijing Youth Daily.

''The difference between this tournament and the previous one is that the burden on me is heavier.'' Ma, who paired up with Chen Qi to win Olympic doubles gold at Athens in 2004, is named to play singles, doubles and mixed doubles at the Dec. 1-15 event.

A doubles bronze medal winner with Yan Sen at the 2002 Asian Games, Ma said he was in ''good form'' on the back of solid training, but could not help looking over his shoulder.

''Before I felt that I was not a bad player, so I would always be defensive, defending the lead, defending for victory... I'm not thinking of 'defence' any more.'' ''The young guys have all matured, have good skills and are fit. If I remain defensive, will there be any chance left for me?'' REUTERS DH HT1655