KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia will have one foot in the quarter-finals of the Thomas Cup if they can secure a victory against Hong Kong, said national coaching director Rexy Mainaky.
The Malaysian team will kick off their campaign against Hong Kong on April 27 in Chengdu, China.
“It depends on our singles…Lee Zii Jia will be the first singles and Leong Jun Hao will be the second.
“We are safe in the doubles and if everything goes smoothly we can win 3-2 or 4-1,” Rexy told reporters when met at Akademi Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara, here today.
Speaking about the team’s preparation, Rexy noted the positive spirit within both the Thomas and Uber squads.
Training camp began on Wednesday under the guidance of the Badminton Association of Malaysia’s psychologist Frederick Tan.
Despite external perceptions of disorganisation, Rexy assured that the team is highly focused.
“Even though our preparation looks disorganised to the public, we are very focused.
“The players are showing solid unity despite the short time we have to prepare for the competition.
“We have team building activities from 6am until 9pm and they show positive spirit while taking part in them.
“Malaysia is a strong badminton nation so we have to prepare to at least challenge for the trophy,” Rexy added. – April 19, 2024