Kunshan: Malaysian men’s team is set to kick off the 2016 Thomas Cup competition at 7pm on Sunday.
Prior to their first Group C match on Sunday, technical director of Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), Morten Frost Hansen told reporters that the Malaysian squad must build trust and team cohesion by working together for the challenge ahead.
“I hope the Malaysia men’s team can do well in Thomas Cup,” said Frost.
Malaysia were the runners-up in the 2014 Thomas Cup. Shuttlers including Lee Chong Wei, Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin, Chong Wei Feng and Goh Soon Huat with doubles’ pairs of Goh V Shem/Tan Wee Kiong, Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong as well as Teo Ee Yi/Ong Yew Sin will be playing in the 2016 edition.
Malaysia have been grouped with South Korea, England and Germany in Group C while defending champions Japan are in Group A with hosts China, France and debutants Mexico.
Only the top two teams from the four groups qualify for the quarter-finals.
Compare to the men’s team, Malaysia’s women’s team has been given a tough draw as they will play badminton powerhouse China in the Uber Cup Group A tie on Sunday.
“It’s going to be a tough fight against China. We have listed some young singles players, and we can only hope for a miracle on Sunday. If our Uber Cup team can do well in their remaining ties against Denmark (Tuesday) and Spain (Wednesday), they still can qualify for the quarter-finals on Thursday,” said Frost.