Little known Weijie aims to make the most of call-up

Closing the gap: Chia Weijie aims to move up the rankings fast with his partner Low Hang Yee.

PETALING JAYA: The last time Chia Weijie was part of the Thomas Cup squad, he was used as a sparring partner.

But the little-known national doubles shuttler might find himself in the starting line-up in the Thomas Cup this time after he was surprisingly named in the list for the team meet that is taking place in Bangkok from May 8-15.

Singles players Ong Ken Yon or Shaqeem Aiman Shahyar were earlier expected to battle it out for the last spot in the team but the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) unexpectedly named an extra doubles player instead.

Weijie will join established pairs Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani in the doubles line-up.

“I was surprised when I saw the announcement from BAM. I’d like to thank my coaches and BAM for giving me such a huge opportunity. If I get a chance to play, I will give my best,” said the 22-year-old.

Weijie’s inclusion provides more options as Malaysia can choose to field scratch pairings in the first or second doubles.

Weijie, who is from the Kuala Lumpur Badminton Association (KLBA), joined the Bukit Jalil Sports School at the age of 13.

He then became a part of the backup squad at BAM when he was 18.

Weijie is currently ranked 196th in the world with Low Hang Yee.

The pair won the Ukraine Open and emerged runners-up in the Swedish Open in January.

Weijie, who looks to Tokyo Olympics bronze medallists Aaron and Wooi Yik as role models, is delighted to be in the same team as his seniors.

“I am happy to be in the same team as them. They are really good seniors. In training, they will give me advice and tips. I hope to follow the same path as them,” explained the youngster.

Looking beyond the prestigious team event, Weijie wants to close the gap between himself and the senior players.

“Hopefully, Hang Yee and I will get more opportunities to play in tournaments and we want to move up the rankings as soon as possible,” said Weijie.