BANGKOK: Boasting the likes of five-time world champion Lin Dan and Olympic champion Chen Long, China have set their sights on reclaiming the Thomas Cup title this week, after missing out in the last two editions.
Head coach Xia Xuanze admitted it is more challenging for the nine-time champions to win it this year, but the badminton dragons are ready to give their best to land the prestigious men's team title in Bangkok.
Tipped to be one of the tournament's favourites, China are in Group A with India, France and Australia.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the competition that starts on Sunday, Xuanze said: "I feel that it is a little different every year. We haven't won the Thomas Cup title in the last two editions, and this year is going to be more challenging for the team.
"Our target, however, is to be champions. We will do our best as a team to try and win it."
Prior to the 2014 edition, China were crowned champions in five consecutive Thomas Cup tournaments.
On the other hand, China have dominated the Uber Cup for a long time. Xuanze, however, is still wary of the threat from Japan, the top seeds of the tournament.
"Between the men's and women's teams this year, I must say the former are stronger. It will be a challenge for the women to defend their crown.
"There are a few countries who are really strong this year. For the Thomas Cup, I see us fighting against countries like Denmark, Indonesia and Malaysia," added Xuanze, who took over from former China supremo Li Yongbo last year.
China, will open their Thomas Cup campaign against Australia on Sunday, while the Uber Cup team play France ion Monday.