While the sport is more or less fully grown in Indonesia, it's still very much in its infancy in the Maldives. However, the inclusion of twins sisters Nabeeha and Nabaaha Abdul Razzaq is a growing sign it could take off given a bit more time. Zhang Dan tells us how.

When you think of the Maldives, what comes to mind? Snorkeling? Surfing? Or just its blue sea and clear sky? As the smallest country in Asia, it consists of thousands of islands and only has a population of 420 thousand. Compared to tourism, sports are not a priority. Fathimath Nabaaha, who is ranked 254 in the world, is facing world number five Chen Yufei from China in her badminton singles' opening match. Despite a big difference in ability, both she and her elder sister Nabeeha still enjoy the sport they have been doing since they were young.

The twin sisters also compete in other sports like cricket and track and field events and won medals in their country in the past. They started fully focusing on badminton six years after finishing their A-level exams with the sport spreading in the country in recent years.

With badminton still growing, the small nation has sent 12 youngsters to China this month, hoping to enhance the friendship between two countries through the racket sport.

China go on to beat the Maldives 3-nil in the women's team competition to reach semi-finals. Despite failing to shine at the Games, its people are still letting the sport grab their imagination back home. Zhang Dan. CGTN.