Badminton News: Whether Lee Zii Jia or Ng Tze Yong take to the court as the first Men’s Singles for next month’s Sudirman Cup, trust Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) Singles Coaching Director Wong Choong Hann, to make the decision.
Last week, ABM announced a 20-member squad for the World Mixed Tag Team Meet in Suzhou, China, with world number 4 Zii Jia and Tze Yong (No 25) as the two players in the men’s singles.
While acknowledging the high ranking that awaits Malaysia in the group stages, Choong Hann told the press today that no player will be favored over the other.
Rather, it will depend on several factors that will be brought to the field.
Malaysia, who hope to go beyond the quarter-finals, are in Group C with Taiwan, India and Australia.
“Zii Jia has established himself and is a reliable team player. We believe he will compete in the Sudirman Cup,” Choong Hann said.
“However, sometimes each player has their own preference regarding the opponent. We will work as a team to further discuss the best odds and winning percentages. He, who is more confident and has a better feeling, will play.”
“Of course, we will do our best to prepare them for each match, but at that time, we still have to take into account minor elements and factors,” Choong Hann said.
The former world number 1 also revealed that centralized training camps for the Sudirman Cup, as well as the Sea Games, will take place after the Asian Championships which start in Dubai next week.
On whether the two teams will train together, Choong Hann said, “We are still in discussion and nothing has been confirmed yet. We will see how it goes.”
“Most importantly, we want to promote team cohesion among players and get them to do activities together.”
It is understood that freelance badminton player Zii Jia is currently training in Hong Kong and will depart from there for Dubai. He should follow a centralized training after the BAC.
“We have sent letters to professional players for their approval and suitability.”
Article Tags: Lee Zii Jia, ng Tze Yong, Sudirman Cup 2023
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