KUALA LUMPUR: In this day and age, it is almost impossible to stay away from social media.
However, former world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei would like to see Malaysian shuttlers try to shut out the "noise" ahead of the Thomas and Uber Cup challenge next month.
Following the draw in Chengdu, China, on Friday, the Malaysian men's team found themselves bunched together with Denmark, Hong Kong and Algeria in Group D while the women's team are in Group B with Thailand, Taiwan, and Australia.
Since winning the world men's team crown in 1992, Malaysia have only reached the final twice, once in 2002 (Guangzhou) and again in 2014 (New Delhi).
Chong Wei, who was team captain back in 2014, said it is crucial for the current crop of players to stay focused on their preparation and not be distracted by comments and criticisms on social media.
The three-time Olympic silver medallist believes that the Malaysian team have what it takesthe quality to qualify for the knockout stage as group winners.
"Looking at the draw, I think we can top the group. However, the team must stay grounded and work as a strong unit. Don't get too ahead of themselves.
"I'd like to tell the players to stay away from social media until after the Thomas Cup, but that's impossible in this day and age.
"My advice to the team is to try to shut out the noise, don't get distracted, and stay focused on preparing for the competition," Chong Wei told Timesport.
Back in 2014, the Malaysian men's team surprised teams like South Korea (group stage), Denmark (quarter-finals), and Indonesia (semi-finals) en route to the final, before narrowly losing 3-2 to Japan.
According to Chong Wei, anything can happen in a team event, which is why it is very important to emphasise on team unity before the competition.
"Regardless of whether the training camp is held in Malaysia or overseas, it is important to have one.
"In 2014, no one expected us to reach the final but we did because we were united as a team.
"I trust coach Rexy (Mainaky) knows what is best. He's won the Thomas Cup and is a very experienced coach," added Chong Wei.
At the Thomas Cup in Bangkok two years ago, Malaysia stunned favourites Japan in the group stage but lost 3-2 to eventual champions India in the last eight.
The Thomas and Uber Cup Finals this year are scheduled for April 27-May 5.