The world No 4 pair, who were lacing up for the first time following their bronze medal win at the Paris Olympics in August, came from behind to defeat China’s world No 21 pair Chen Bo Yang-Liu Yi 21-18, 21-18 in a tough match that lasted about 50 minutes.

Aaron-Wooi Yik had to sit out four major BWF Tour events since August due to injuries, and they did not have it easy in their return to the court against Bo Yang-Yi at the Energia Areena in Vantaa, Finland.

The Malaysian pair were trailing for the most part but showed glimpses of their old form, especially when overcoming the rising Chinese pair towards the end of both games.

They join two other Malaysian pairs in the men’s doubles last-16 with today’s win; Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.

Another Malaysian pair, Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi, will be playing their first-round match against the Danish duo of Daniel Lundgaard-Mads Vestergaard later tonight.

In the mixed doubles, Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai and Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin have also made it to the last 16.

are the only Malaysian pair who qualified for the last-16.