PETALING JAYA: Let the best pair win the ticket to the Thomas Cup Finals.
That is professional coach Teo Kok Siang's stance as his charges Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani battle Wan Arif Wan Junaidi-Yap Roy King for the final men's doubles spot for the Finals in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3.
World No. 7 Sze Fei-Izzuddin are ranked higher than Arif-Roy King (No. 16) and boast stronger results, including winning the Indonesian Masters this year, but the BA of Malaysia are keeping the selection a suspense.
The BAM coaches plan to assess both pairs at the Asian Championships from April 7-12 in Ningbo, China, although the deadline to submit the final squad list is April 10.
The other two pairs already confirmed are world No. 2 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and world No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.
Kok Siang, who has been utilising BAM's invitation to train at Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) twice a week, is open to any decision as long as the nation is represented with the best players.
"I believe BAM will select the best possible line-up to fight for the best results," said Kok Siang.
"If we are fortunate enough to be selected, we will fully align ourselves with the team's direction.
"It requires strong team spirit and the ability to handle pressure at the highest level. We have had experience playing in the Thomas Cup before, so we understand its importance."
If selected, Sze Fei-Izzuddin will join the squad for centralised training in Herning, Denmark, before heading to the Finals venue.
On their recent collaboration with BAM, Kok Siang gave a positive assessment.
"Sze Fei and Izzuddin have been training very well within the BAM setup. They are getting high-quality sparring sessions and have improved their overall endurance," he said.
"We can clearly see in their matches that their game now has more variation and greater speed. We are appreciative of the opportunity provided by BAM."
As for the Asian meet, Kok Siang is setting a high target for Sze Fei-Izzuddin.
"Based on their current form, I would set at least a semi-final finish," he said.
Meanwhile, Kok Siang is still optimistic about Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi despite their recent struggles.
"The key for them now is to rediscover their rhythm. They are still a capable pair and can definitely compete," he said.
"What they need to do is improve the quality of their shot execution, especially in crucial points and attacking transitions.They will focus on the Asian Tour when they are ready."
