Malaysia’s bid to secure a place in the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark is coming down to the wire, with two men’s doubles pairs battling for the final spot on the team.
Professional coach Teo Kok Siang has made it clear that the decision on who will join the national squad will be based on performance, stressing that the best pair must be chosen to maximize Malaysia’s chances at the prestigious team event scheduled from April 24 to May 3.
Already confirmed in the squad are two top men’s doubles combinations. World No. 2 Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik are expected to lead the team, alongside world No. 7 duo Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun.
Source: Berita Harian
The final slot is being contested by Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, who recently won the Indonesian Masters title, and the independent pairing of Wan Arif Wan Junaidi and Yap Roy King.
Teo Kok Siang, whose charges have been training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia twice weekly under BAM’s invitation, said he supports whatever selection is made as long as it gives Malaysia the strongest possible lineup for the Finals.
“If we are fortunate enough to be selected, we will fully align ourselves with the team’s direction,” Teo said, highlighting the importance of strong team spirit and the ability to handle pressure at the highest level.
Should Sze Fei and Izzuddin be chosen, they will join the squad for centralised training in Herning, Denmark before the team departs for the Finals venue.
Malaysia aims to end a long Thomas Cup title drought, having last won the trophy in 1992, and strong doubles depth will be key to that ambition.
