PETALING JAYA: Men’s singles shuttler Justin Hoh is heading into Malaysia’s Thomas Cup Finals campaign in Horsens, Denmark, with a burning desire.
It is not just about helping the team chase success, but also about silencing critics after he and his teammates came under scrutiny for their inconsistent performances in recent months.
The Finals starts today but Malaysia will open their Group B campaign against England tomorrow. The others in their group are Japan and Finland.
Malaysia’s hopes of ending a 34-year title drought however, have been widely questioned, with some even labelling this the weakest men’s singles line-up the country has fielded in Thomas Cup history.
“I really want to prove people wrong because many outsiders say it will be difficult for us to win the Thomas Cup.
“We are coming in as underdogs, but we want to fight in every tie and deliver points for the team.
“I hope our team can go far this time,” said Justin.
Besides Justin, Malaysia have named Leong Jun Hao, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin and Lee Zii Jia in the men’s singles squad.
Justin, who is set for his second appearance at the world team championships, admitted the eight-day camp in Herning had helped him settle in well, and he hopes it will show when competition begins.
“It has helped a lot because we had to adjust to the time difference, as well as the environment and food here.
We came early to adapt and get comfortable with the conditions here.”
Justin made an encouraging Thomas Cup debut in Chengdu two years ago when he featured as third singles and came close to upsetting Denmark’s Rasmus Gemke in the decisive Group D clash for top spot.
This time, he is expected to take on the second singles role.
Captain Aaron Chia is brimming with confidence.
“Everything has been going well here. Everyone is well prepared, and I can feel the team spirit is high,” said Aaron, who will partner Soh Wooi Yik.
Also in the doubles line-up are Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun and Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani.
Malaysia last lifted the Cup in 1992, and the target this year is clear – to bring home the coveted team title once again.
