PETALING JAYA: Professional shuttler Cheam June Wei has declared himself ready to step in should he be called up for Malaysia’s Thomas Cup campaign in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24 to May 3.
The 29-year-old is among the players being considered to take up Malaysia’s fourth men’s singles spot for the Finals.
Leong Jun Hao, Justin Hoh and Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin are set to compete in Denmark, leaving the fourth singles spot up for grabs.
The possible late inclusion for June Wei comes amid uncertainty surrounding fellow professional Lee Zii Jia’s participation at the Finals, who continues to nurse an ankle injury and has not joined training sessions at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM).
Although he has yet to receive any official confirmation from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), June Wei remains prepared.
“At the moment, there’s been no communication, but if the opportunity comes, I’m ready,” said June Wei.
“I hope I still have the chance to prove myself, and that the coaches will consider me.”
Either world No. 85 June Wei or world No. 79 Eogene Ewe could be drafted in if world No. 83 Zii Jia is unable to recover in time before the squad submission deadline on Friday.
June Wei, who featured in the 2020 Finals in Aarhus and the 2024 edition in Chengdu, is hoping for a third appearance.
“I’ve stayed committed to my training and kept myself in the best shape possible. If selected, my experience could help as I know what to expect at this level,” he said.
“There are only a few days before the decision needs to be made, so I’m just hoping for the best for myself,” he said.
