KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Jalani Sidek has defied the odds by expressing unwavering confidence in the current Malaysian squad’s ability to spring surprises as the Thomas Cup Finals kick off on Saturday in Chengdu, China.
Jalani, a key member of the triumphant 1992 squad that brought home the prestigious trophy for Malaysia 32 years ago, remains optimistic that, despite facing various challenges and obstacles, the current line-up might achieve success.
His confidence is not unfounded but rather based on the performances of current players, particularly highlighting the men’s doubles pairs of Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzudin as the key to Malaysia’s success in Chengdu.
Aaron-Wooi Yik have consistently displayed strong performances in international tournaments, while Sze Fei-Izzudin have shown remarkable improvement by defeating several top pairs in the world and recently becoming runners-up at the Asia Championships.
Hence, Malaysia must aim to secure one more point from either of the three singles players during the upcoming matches.
“I believe, despite what others may say, that nothing is impossible. If the players’ spirit is strong, they can achieve it. Our two men’s doubles pairs are formidable, and we can expect another point from Lee Zii Jia (in men’s singles).
“But if our two men’s doubles pairs can win, we can count on Leong Jun Hao. He is excellent in team events, and for the third singles, let’s say we place Justin (Hoh).
“Anyone can motivate Jun Hao and Justin to boost their spirits because this is the Thomas Cup, not everyone can play in the Thomas Cup.
“But these two men’s doubles pairs cannot lose if we want to win, that’s what I believe,” said Jalani.
At the same time, Jalani also reminded Wooi Yik to exhibit strong leadership as the team captain in leading the squad for this Thomas Cup mission, especially in instilling a fighting spirit when facing opponents.
For the record, Jalani served as the deputy captain, assisting his brother, Datuk Razif Sidek, as the captain of the 1992 Thomas Cup squad.
“So, the coach and team captain must let the men’s doubles players know that they need to shoulder this heavy responsibility.
“Considering that this is Wooi Yik’s first experience as captain in the Thomas Cup, and he also doesn’t know how it will go, he is trying because he is the top men’s doubles player in Malaysia.
“But overall, fostering team spirit is crucial, if you fall, you must get up,” he added.
Malaysia will begin their Thomas Cup campaign in Group D against Hong Kong on Saturday, followed by a match against Algeria on Sunday, and the crucial final group match against Denmark on Tuesday. – April 24, 2024