Not easy: Malaysia’s Aaron Chia- Soh Wooi Yik will have Denmark’s world No. 4 Kim Astrup-Anders Skaarup Rasmussen to contend with in the upcoming Thomas Cup Finals.
PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles shuttler Aaron Chia has given the thumbs up to Malaysia’s draw in the Thomas Cup Finals.
In the draw released yesterday, Malaysia have been placed in Group D along with Denmark, Hong Kong and Algeria in the prestigious team meet from April 27-May 5 in Chengdu.
The toughest opponent for Malaysia will be second seeds Denmark.
The Danish team have world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen and world No. 4 Anders Antonsen and world No. 4 doubles pair Kim Astrup-Anders Skaarup Rasmussen in their ranks.
Hong Kong will also not be a straightforward proposition as the team are guided by former Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) singles coaching director Wong Choong Hann and have experienced duo Lee Cheuk Yiu (No. 14) and Angus Ng Ka Long (No. 26).
Aaron, who forms the country’s No. 1 partnership with Soh Wooi Yik said he was optimistic with the draw.
“Honestly, it’s quite a good draw for us on paper,” said Aaron.
Malaysia managed to avoid top seeds China and arch rivals Indonesia. In fact, Indonesia are in an interesting Group C with India and Thailand.
Aaron knows second seeds Denmark are set to pose a tricky challenge but admitted that it would depend on the team’s strength.
“It all depends on who plays in the team. Let’s wait for the final team list to be announced,” said Aaron.
National coaching director Rexy Mainaky said he would name the team next week but it’s unlikely to be any major surprises.
“It’s a tough draw for us but all teams have equal strength,” said Rexy.
“I will choose the team by next week since all coaches will be back from tournaments.”
Malaysia do not have many options in the singles with world No. 10 Lee Zii Jia and Leong Jun Hao (No. 37) most likely to be given the nod while Ng Tze Yong (No. 18) could also make the team if he is in good condition after undergoing back surgery at the end of last month.
In the doubles, independent pair Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi (No. 12), Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (No. 18), Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (No. 19) will be vying for selection in the second doubles.
Malaysia last won the Cup in 1992.
Meanwhile, in the Uber Cup Finals, Malaysia will take on Thailand, Taiwan and Australia in Group B but the girls, who made the cut via the back door, are not expected to go far.
