KUALA LUMPUR: In a quick turn of events, the BA of Malaysia (BAM) confirmed on Tuesday that mixed doubles shuttler Chan Peng Soon has rejoined the national team through an application.
The news comes a day after the 33-year-old, who is known on social media as "Uncle Chan", announced that he had ended his 13-year partnership with Goh Liu Ying.
In an official statement released by BAM, the national body noted that the decision to absorb Peng Soon back was reached with the objective of strengthening the mixed doubles department and implementing a mentoring role for the youthful national squad.
Peng Soon, who first quit the national team to go independent in 2019, will report for duty again at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara on Jan 1.
"We are delighted to add a player of his experience and credentials to our national team," said BAM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria.
"In his application, he has stated his intentions to fight for Paris 2024 and expressed his determination to also serve the role of mentor to our young team.
"It is our hope that he will be able to share his experiences with our young players. We have no doubt that his qualities will complement the many young talents we have here in ABM," added Norza.
Among Peng Soon's career highlights with Liu Ying was winning silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics, reaching the final of the 2017 All England and winning the 2010 Commonwealth Games and Asia Championships, as well as the 2012 Japan Open.