AXIATA CUP: Seu Bock to monitor Chong Wei in training before committing
THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) has given the greenlight for Lee Chong Wei to play in the Axiata Cup semi-finals but his coach Tey Seu Bock wants to make a decision after a training session today.
BAM secretary Ng Chin Chai said the association has no objections if Chong Wei wants to play for Malaysia Tigers in Jakarta and in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday against Indonesia Garuda.
"BAM has no objections if Chong Wei wishes to play in the Axiata Cup semi-finals. He has already started training and Seu Bock and the player himself should make a decision on that," said Chin Chai.
However, Seu Bock doesn't want to rush and he will have a discussion with Chong Wei, singles chief coach Rashid Sidek and physical trainer Roesdi Ghani before deciding whether the World No 1 should make the trip to Jakarta.
"Off course, Chong Wei wants to contribute to Malaysia Tigers' victory. However, we have to ensure that he is fully recovered from the shoulder injury and is fit enough to play against Taufik Hidayat on Friday (tomorrow)," said Seu Bock.
"It is not an easy match and Chong Wei must be in a good condition. So far, his recovery has been very good and the feedback from Roesdi and the physiotherapist has been very positive.
"But we need to make sure the decision to play this weekend doesn't hamper Chong Wei's Olympic preparations.
"As of now, his ticket has been booked but if Chong Wei doesn't feel good, then he will not make the trip."
Chong Wei had stated his intent of playing in the match as he realised that it would be difficult for the Tigers to beat Garuda in his absence and he may decide to go to Jakarta after all.
The Axiata Cup, the richest team event in the sport offering US$1 million (RM3 million) in total prize money, offers US$400,000 for the champions and US$200,000 for the runners-up.
Tigers will only receive US$100,000 if they lose in the semi-finals but Chong Wei's presence will change all that.
Malaysia Leopards, the national back-up squad, are also in the last four where they will play Indonesia Rajawali in KL on Saturday and the return leg in Jakarta on Sunday.
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