Badminton

Choong Hann: Don't panic just yet

BA of Malaysia (BAM) coaching director Wong Choong Hann is not pushing the panic button despite injuries to World No 10 Lee Zii Jia and Leong Jun Hao.

Zii Jia, 22, and Jun Hao, 21, both suffered muscle tears at the recent BAM Invitational Championships and are expected to be out of competitive action for a month.

With the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals (Oct 3-11) in Aarhus, Denmark looming, it looks like a concern for BAM.

However, Choong Hann remains optimistic and confident that the injuries would do little to dampen the team's preparation.

"Firstly, being out for a month does not mean both Zii Jia and Jun Hao are completely out of training and rehabilitation programmes.

"We will monitor their progress, and I am optimistic that they will be back in action.

"They have undergone the ultrasound scan at the National Sports Institute and are being treated for muscle tears. Lower back for Zii Jia and right hip for Jun Hao," said Choong Hann.

Choong Hann also believes that now is the time for several young shuttlers, including the Invitational Championships champion Ng Tze Yong, to step up to the plate.

"Yes, I am happy that our young players showed good character in the tournament.

"They still have a long way to go, but at the same time should make full use of the opportunity that presents itself.

"Zii Jia and Jun Hao still have time to make a proper recovery. I am not too worried," said Choong Hann.

Agreeing with the recent comments made by national men's singles coach Tey Seu Bock on the selection process being an open affair, Choong Hann added: "I think independent players like Liew Daren and Soong Joo Ven also gave a good showing at the Invitational Championships, despite also suffering from injuries.

"Because of their age, the recovery process might take longer but that does not mean they do not have the experience to offer the national squad.

"It is still very much open."

While international tournaments have yet to resume since the suspension of the season in March, the Badminton World Federation remain positive that the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals will go on as planned.

Malaysia, who last won the coveted Thomas Cup in 1992, have been drawn in Group A with Indonesia, the Netherlands and England.

The women's team are in Group B alongside South Korea, Indonesia and Australia for the Uber Cup.

Most Popular
Related Article
Says Stories