PETALING JAYA: A brief separation could do wonders for doubles shuttler Soh Wooi Yik and his regular partner Aaron Chia.
Malaysia opted to split the pair in their Group B tie against Finland on Monday, fielding Wooi Yik alongside Tee Kai Wun instead.
Kai Wun's regular partner is Man Wei Chong, who is getting better from his injury.
The makeshift duo delivered comfortably, beating Ananda Galvani Daniswara-Alvar Melleri 21-7, 21-14 as Malaysia cruised to a 4-1 win.
Only Leong Jun Hao dropped a point, while Justin Hoh, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani and Lee Zii Jia all came through their matches.
Wooi Yik described the experience as refreshing.
"It was an opportunity for me to learn from Tee and also add different skills and variety to my game," said Wooi Yik.
"As it was a temporary pairing, we were able to play without pressure. Kai Wun told me to cover for him...that was fun.
"The experience will help me grow and I’ll be more than ready to rejoin Aaron again."
Former world champions Aaron-Wooi Yik are set for a tougher test against Japan in the final Group B tie on Wednesday (April 28).
Japan thrashed England 5-0 on Monday and have depth in their doubles, with world No. 24 Kakeru Kumagai-Hiroki Nishi and world No. 30 Takumi Nomura-Yuichi Shimogami available.
Although they are without the injured Yugo Kobayashi, Japan are expected to pair Takuro Hoki with a scratch partner - a combination that could still pose a threat.
"Playing against Finland was a good warm-up before the big match against Japan. We will be prepared," said Wooi Yik.
“I know some of our singles players are struggling, but the team spirit is still high. We will play as one."
