PETALING JAYA: Japan are favourites to top Group B in the Thomas Cup Finals, given their superior depth in the singles.
But if Malaysia can spring a surprise, it would provide an early boost in their quest to end a long wait for the title.
In the draw released yesterday, the team, led by national No. 1 Leong Jun Hao (pic), were placed alongside Japan, England and Finland for the Finals in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3.
The top two teams will advance to the quarter-finals, and Malaysia’s chances look promising.
However, to overcome Japan and emerge as group winners, Malaysia must take at least one singles and two doubles matches.
Japan boast strong depth in the singles through Kodai Naraoka (No. 9), Kenta Nishimoto (15), Yushi Tanaka (19) and Koki Watanabe (21), while Malaysia are expected to field Jun Hao (23), Justin Hoh (38), Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin (51) and Lee Zii Jia (86).
In the doubles, Japan rely heavily on former world champions Takuro Hoki-Yugo Kobayashi (No. 8), but Malaysia can counter with world champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (No. 2) and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (No. 6).
National doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky is pleased with the fine draw but he wants the team to remain focused in their preparations.
“The draw looks good, but let the team stay focused on their preparation here and later in Denmark (centralised camp in Herning for 10 days),” said Rexy.
Group C and Group D are expected to be more competitive, with Taiwan, France and Thailand capable of upsetting higher-ranked sides to secure quarter-final spots.
Group A set to be a straight forward affair with China and India clearing the group stage.
In the Uber Cup Finals, Malaysia too have a good chance to enter the quarter-finals as the women’s team led by Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah are drawn in Group B with Japan, Turkiye and South Africa.
