PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles pair Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun carry Malaysia’s strongest medal hopes into the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, but all eyes will be on Wei Chong’s fitness as he manages a recent knee injury.
National doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky said based on his observations during recent training sessions, everything looks positive for the 25-year-old.
“From what I have seen, his performance on court looks good and he is moving well,” said Rexy.
“But we still need to monitor his knee and how much it has improved.
“So far, it does not seem to affect him, which is a positive sign.”
Wei Chong was reported to have sustained the injury to his right knee last month before travelling to Birmingham to compete in the All-England.
Wei Chong-Kai Wun will have to wait to learn their first-round opponents as they are drawn against a pair from the qualifying rounds.
Meanwhile, fellow national shuttler Wan Arif Wan Junaidi was reported to have had a fever before departing for Ningbo on Sunday.
However, Rexy said there is no cause for concern as Arif’s condition has since improved.
“Arif and (Yap) Roy King are also okay, no problems,” he added.
“Arif had a slight fever two days ago, but he looks fine now.
Arif and his partner Yap Roy King also have their own mission at the Asian Championships as they aim to deliver a strong performance to secure a spot in the Thomas Cup squad from April 24-May 3 in Horsens, Denmark.
They will face Taiwan’s world No. 20 Lee Fang-Chih-Lee Fang-Jen in the first round.
