NATIONAL squash player S. Sivasangari, who was involved in a car crash early yesterday, is in stable condition after receiving intensive treatment at Putrajaya Hospital.

Youth and Sports Minister Ahmad Faizal Azumu said the 23-year-old athlete is expected to take at least three months to fully recover before she can return to the court.

He said the Kedah-born lass, who was supposed to be the flag-bearer at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games slated for July 28 to August 8, will
not be able to participate in the competition.

“Siva (Sivasangari) is currently conscious. I gave words of encouragement and support to her. Her parents are positive-minded and Siva, too, has a positive vibe. I am pleased to hear she has such a strong spirit,” he told reporters after visiting the athlete.

“When I knew about this (crash), I was concerned. But when I spoke with the doctors and specialists, they said the seriousness of the injury (was such that) it can be cured, so I felt relieved.”

Faizal said the National Sports Institute will provide follow-up treatment if required.

Putrajaya Hospital deputy director-general Dr Mohammad Khairol Anwar Yusof said Sivasangari suffered injuries to her face and spine, but is in stable condition.

However, he said, the hospital cannot yet confirm how long the athlete will remain admitted.

“She sustained a few laceration wounds on the face and some injuries on the back. We are committed to looking after our athlete. Let us pray that she will recover soonest.”

On whether Sivasangari will require additional surgery, he said it is too early to know, but a team of experts will monitor the athlete from time to time.

“It is also too early for us to speculate whether she can play or not. For now, let us focus on her recovery and after that, she will go to rehab and training.” – Bernama, June 27, 2022.