PETALING JAYA: China remain among the favourites to lift the Thomas Cup, boasting the depth and quality to mount a formidable title defence.
However, former national men’s singles coach Datuk Misbun Sidek (pic) believes that beyond the tag of favourites, China’s true strength lies in something far less visible.
While China’s line-up is often predictable, their preparation for major team events remains notoriously difficult to read – a factor that could pose a serious challenge for Malaysia if the two sides meet in Horsens, Denmark.
“The biggest concern with China is their preparation. It is something we cannot predict, and it is never easy to find a way to beat them. That’s just how China are,” said Misbun.
Although the current squad closely resemble the one that clinched the title in Chengdu two years ago, they still rank among their strongest.
That includes the return of He Jiting, who has been recalled to reunite with Ren Xiangyu after previously being dropped over a disciplinary issue.
The pair proved they remain a threat after claiming a bronze medal at the Asian Championships in Ningbo three weeks ago.
For Misbun, China place immense importance on the Thomas Cup, viewing it as one of the sport’s most prestigious prizes.
He added that strong incentives and national pride drive the players to raise their level when representing the country in team competitions.
“China have always treated the Thomas Cup as a prestigious title. Their preparation is on a different level, and we do not even know what kind of incentives they receive. But when they play in the Thomas Cup or Uber Cup, they are fully committed. They do not take it lightly.
“For them, it is about representing the country. They are determined to defend their pride, and that is why their preparation, even for events like the Olympics, is often done quietly behind the scenes without others knowing,” he added.
Malaysia have not faced China in the Thomas Cup since the 2012 quarter-finals in Wuhan, where they went down 0-3.
A meeting could be on the cards this time if both teams advance to the knockout stage.
Malaysia have been drawn in Group B alongside Japan, England and Finland, while China are in Group A with India, Canada and Australia.
