WOKINGHAM badminton prodigy Abigail Holden admitted she surprised even herself with her AJ Bell National Badminton League win against Malaysia’s 2010 mixed team Commonwealth champion Lyddia Cheah.

The youngster ran out a straight games winner by beating her experienced opponent 9-7 9-8 9-7 at Surrey Sports Park.

“I wasn’t expecting to win that game. I just thought if I stuck in the rallies I could force her to make a mistake and it’s worked,” said Abigail.

“I got momentum right from the start so I kept that going forward throughout most of the match.

“I know she’s a very skilful player and some of the shots she hits you just can’t get back, so for me it was just trying to be steady and win as many rallies as I can by forcing her to make a mistake instead of letting her play a good shot.”

Her win could not help the Surrey Smashers to overall victory, though, as they went down 3-2 to Team Derby.

The defeat leaves the Smashers sixth in the table after four of their six AJ Bell NBL Season Three fixtures, four points off the top four.

But whatever happens in their season, 17-year-old Holden is just happy to be playing and gaining experience against Olympians.

“It’s a really good experience for me so hopefully I’ll get better and better as I play more and get more used to playing in front of a crowd,” added the reigning under-19 national champion.

“Playing here there is always really good support so it’s always nice having the crowd behind you. It’s a lot more reassuring.”

The AJ Bell National Badminton League final takes place on February 8 at centre:mk in Milton Keynes, offering a great value family evening out.

Tickets to see the league’s top two teams go head to head to be champions can be booked atwww.nationalbadmintonleague.co.uk