PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s women’s doubles stars Pearly Tan-M.Thinaah were made to work hard before sealing their place in the second round of the Japan Masters in Kumamoto on Wednesday (Nov 12).

The world No. 2 pair overcame a strong challenge from Japan’s unheralded duo Mikoto Aiso-Momoha Nimi, prevailing 18-21, 21-9, 21-17 in the first round encounter.