In focus: Cheng Su Hui (right) and Tan Zhing Yi taking part in a simulation match during training for the Sudirman Cup.
PETALING JAYA: The absence of Man Wei Chong and Go Pei Kee from the simulation match yesterday was due to both players coming down with the flu.
Wei Chong, who was originally partnered with Tee Kai Wun against Choong Hon Jian-Mohd Haikal Nazri, was replaced after Kai Wun teamed up with Aaron Tai instead.
In the women’s doubles, Carmen Ting was paired with Ong Xin Yee to take on Cheng Su Hui-Tang Zhing Yi after Pei Kee was ruled out due to illness.
However, national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky said there was no cause for concern ahead of the Sudirman Cup, which begins on Sunday.
Rexy confirmed that both players are currently resting and will still be part of the travelling squad to Xiamen.
“Wei Chong came down with the flu yesterday (Monday), and so did Pei Kee, which is why they didn’t play and we had to make last-minute changes to the matches.
“There are also a few other players showing flu symptoms. In fact, we only found out about Wei Chong’s condition at the eleventh hour.
“But regardless, both of them will still be part of the Sudirman Cup squad,” said Rexy.
The national team are scheduled to depart for Xiamen on Thursday.
At the same time, Rexy played down the outcome of the simulation match, saying the focus was more on the players’ gameplay and overall readiness ahead of the Sudirman Cup next week.
Malaysia have been drawn in Group C alongside three-time runners-up Japan, France and Australia.
“The purpose of the simulation wasn’t to gauge how far the team can go, but rather to assess their progress and what we want to achieve.
“With the tournament just around the corner, we wanted to observe their focus, mental strength and psychological preparedness.
“The benefit of this simulation is that we get to evaluate the players’ readiness before they step onto the actual court. It also gives us a clearer picture of their current form,” he added.
