PETALING JAYA: Malaysia used to bank on strong men’s singles players to lead the Sudirman Cup but it will be different this time with either Leong Jun Hao or Justin Hoh taking the lead role.
But three-time Olympic Games silver medal winner Datuk Lee Chong Wei has full faith in Jun Hao and Justin, depending on who is given the mantle to lead in the mixed team event from April 27-May 4 in Xiamen, China.
“On paper, there is no chance for us to win the Cup as we don’t have a balanced side. Jun Hao and Justin may not be our No. 1 national player but they have the potential to surprise their opponents,” said Chong Wei.
“Clearing the group and a semi-final finish will be a realistic target to start with. I wish the team all the best.
Malaysia have been drawn in Group C with Japan, Australia and France. They have to finish top two in the group to make the last eight.
The others in the team are Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (men’s doubles); Goh Jin Wei K. Letshanaa (women’s singles); Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah, Go Pei Kee-Carmen Ting (women’s doubles); and Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie, Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin, Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei (mixed doubles).
