KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s badminton team started off their 2024 Thomas Cup campaign with a resounding 5-0 victory over Hong Kong in the opening match of Group D today.
At the Hi Tech Zone Sports Centre in Chengdu, Malaysia’s top men’s singles player, Lee Zii Jia, secured the first point for the team by defeating Lee Cheuk Yiu with a score of 21-18, 21-18.
Team captain Soh Wooi Yik, alongside his partner Aaron Chia, maintained the team’s momentum with a commanding straight set victory over Law Cheuk Him-Yeung Shing Choi, winning 21-16, 21-12 for Malaysia’s second point.
“I feel excited, as a captain for today’s first match, it’s great to contribute a point even though we have an advantage over our opponents, we remain focused on our game plan.
“For me, when we step onto the court, Aaron and I need to ensure we collect points because our role is crucial regardless of the outcome,” said Wooi Yik.
Leong Jun Hao, playing as the second men’s singles, delivered a stellar performance as well, surprising world number 27 player Angus Ng Ka Long with a hard-fought victory of 17-21, 21-12, 21-15 after a 70-minute battle.
Despite Malaysia’s comfortable 3-0 lead, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzudin Rumsani, the runners-up at the Asian Championships, didn’t allow their opponents, Reginald Lee Chun Hei-Tang Chun Man, any leeway, clinching victory with scores of 21-19, 21-18.
Rising star Justin Hoh sealed Malaysia’s victory by defeating Chan Yin Chak 21-19, 19-21, 21-17.
Next, Malaysia will face Algeria in their second group stage match tomorrow before a challenging encounter against the 2016 champions, Denmark, on Tuesday. – April 27, 2024