Malaysia handed challenging draw in Asia Team Championships

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia have been handed a tricky draw for the Asia Team Championships.

The hosts are placed in Group C together with Taiwan, Thailand and Myanmar.

Only the top two teams progress to the quarter-finals and Malaysia need to bring their A game in order to meet the top four target.

The Asian meet, which will be held in Alor Setar from Feb 6-11, serves as a qualifier for the Thomas Cup Finals in May, with the top four teams automatically booking their spots.

Top seeds China are in Group A with Hong Kong and Singapore while second seeds Indonesia make up Group D with India, Philippines and Maldives.

Group B comprises Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan and Nepal.

In the women’s event, Malaysia are also in Group C together with Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Top seeds Japan are in Group A together with India and Hong Kong, while second seeds China are in Group D together with Indonesia and Singapore.

South Korea round up Group B with Taiwan and Maldives.