PETALING JAYA: It is never easy for a coach to rebuild the confidence of an injured player but Lee Wan Wah has managed just that with Japan’s top men’s doubles pair Takuro Hoki-Yugo Kobayashi.
Within a year, Hoki-Kobayashi have surged from the world No. 71 to No. 8, underlining a remarkable turnaround.
The former world champions are now expected to be Japan’s trumpcard as the first doubles in the Thomas Cup Finals from April 24-May 3 in Horsens, Denmark.
Japan are in Group B with Malaysia, England and Finland.
Wan Wah took over the national men’s doubles team last year when Kobayashi was struggling with injury.
“It was a real challenge when I started. I was only left with Hoki and Koba, and Koba was injured, so it took some time for them to get back to their level,” said Wan Wah.
“I also wanted them to regain their form gradually as they are not young anymore and another serious injury could push them into retirement.
The former Thomas Cupper Wan Wah’s patience and faith have paid off with results trickling in soon after.
“I have a few good memories like winning bronze in the Sudirman Cup. Our men’s doubles (Hoki-Kobayashi) were trailing (against Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik) but managed to turn it around to help the team beat Malaysia.
“Then, Hoki-Koba went on to win the Denmark Open last year.
“This year, winning the Asia team championships for the first time was special - not just because of Hoki and Koba, but the young players delivered as well.
Wan Wah believes Japan have a balanced team heading into the Finals but admitted Malaysia still hold the edge in depth in the doubles.
“I think both teams should make it out of the group without much trouble - it’s just the question of who tops it,” said Wan Wah.
Only the top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the top eight knockout stage.
“At the moment, we have a fairly balanced team with a mix of seniors like Hoki-Koba and some promising youngsters.
“But off course, Malaysia are ahead with two to three good pairs at the top.
Wan Wah, who previously partnered Choong Tan Fook as Malaysia’s top pair, has experienced both highs and lows in the Thomas Cup but the 2002 edition in Guangzhou remains his most vivid memory.
“I still remember...I was carrying an injury just before the Finals but continued to play. We won our match against China in the semis on their home ground - that was memorable.
“Only after that did I go for surgery.”
Wan Wah’s contract with Japan runs until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games but a return to home could be on the cards.
“I plan to continue until the Olympics for sure, but I don’t think I will retire in Japan. Malaysian food is too good for me,” added Wah Wah.
