INDEPENDENT shuttler Tan Boon Heong may not be considered for next month’s Thomas Cup despite him expressing his interest recently.
BA of Malaysia (BAM) president Datuk Seri Norza Zakaria says selecting an independent player for major events is not a straightforward thing.
Norza said: "Selecting an independent player for the Thomas Cup is not as simple — there are a few things that need to be considered.
"One has to understand that representing the national team is not just about donning the national jersey. It is national duty. We are all in national service here.
"Independent players cannot just come and go. How committed are they?
"We know that our BAM players for the longest time have been training hard. We have our coaches assessing them. They know the best combinations and who works best with who.
"Are independent players training as hard as them? We can't say because they are not with us.
"And then, there are concerns about sponsorship. How committed are they to represent the country?,” said Norza.
Norza said he is more impressed with the up-and-coming shuttlers following their fine performances at the recent Malaysia International Challenge.
"We cannot be dependent on seniors alone. They are now fighting for their place, and that is what we want to see,” he added.
Malaysia are in Group D with defending champions Denmark, Russia and Algeria in the Thomas Cup