PETALING JAYA: World No. 2 men’s doubles pair, Soh Wooi Yik is thrilled to have his good friend Lee Zii Jia back in the fold as he joins the national squad for preparations ahead of the Thomas Cup.
The Paris Olympic bronze medallist is set to report for training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara on Wednesday (April 1).
Wooi Yik said Zii Jia’s presence has given him an added boost as they look to help Malaysia end their long wait for the Thomas Cup, a title last won in 1992.
“Of course, I feel more certain. More confident (with Zii Jia joining the national squad),” said Wooi Yik.
Zii Jia, Wooi Yik and his partner Aaron Chia are among the players expected to be part of Malaysia’s Thomas Cup squad.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is still weighing its options on the remaining spots ahead of the April 10 registration deadline.
While excited about his friend’s return, Wooi Yik hopes Zii Jia will be able to rediscover his best form in time to contribute to the team’s campaign.
“For now, I hope he finds his form again. I don’t know his training condition, but hopefully, he gets it back. He has the experience and the potential. I just hope for the best for him,” he added.
