PETALING JAYA: Lee Zii Jia (pic) has tipped Malaysia as a dark horse for the upcoming Thomas Cup, expressing cautious optimism over the team’s chances of ending a 34-year title drought.
The Paris Olympic bronze medallist, who had remained silent on the team’s prospects, said Malaysia have what it takes to mount a serious challenge at the tournament in Horsens, Denmark from April 24 to May 3.
His comments come amid lingering doubts over the squad’s ability to go all the way, with Malaysia last winning the title in 1992 on home soil.
Zii Jia, however, stressed that success would depend on collective effort, noting that every player has a crucial role to play.
“For me, Malaysia are a dark horse. The chance is there, but personally I am not placing high expectations on myself.
“I will try to play my role, most likely as the third singles. If I get the chance, I will go all out. Everyone is important and each player has a key role,” he said when met at the Academy Badminton Malaysia on Tuesday (April 14).
