KUALA LUMPUR: Justin Hoh hopes to regain his confidence, and a spot in Malaysia's Thomas Cup team will help the men's singles shuttler's cause.
From enduring a devastating Achilles tendon rupture last April to sustaining a knee injury in December, the 20-year-old admitted his morale took a beating last season.
Now back on the court after a prolonged absence, the former national junior standout is eager to make up for lost time.
And what better way than to feature for Malaysia in the Thomas Cup in Chengdu, China, on April 27-May 5.
The BA of Malaysia (BAM) has yet to finalise the squad.
However, with world No. 11 Lee Zii Jia still contemplating his participation and No. 18 Ng Tze Yong recovering from spinal disc surgery, chances are high for Justin to make the cut.
Justin said: "There will be challenges for everyone, especially after a lengthy layoff.
"My main struggle has been the loss of confidence. I faced setbacks due to injuries, resulting in a drop in world ranking (No. 233), and it made me doubt myself.
"My goal now is to regain that confidence and hopefully earn a place in the Thomas Cup squad."
Notably, Justin reached a career-high world No. 48 ranking before being sidelined last year.
Malaysia are in Group D with European champions Denmark, who boast the likes of world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen and No. 4 Anders Antonsen, Hong Kong and Algeria in the Thomas Cup.
In the possible absence of Zii Jia and Tze Yong, Justin could be fielded as the second or third men's singles player in the group stage.
About his readiness to face some of the big names in world badminton, Justin added: "The Thomas Cup is a big tournament for every player; I wish to be a part of the team.
"If I am selected, then this will be my best chance to play against these top players.
"I will prepare myself and be ready if I am called up."
Apart from Justin, the other players who look set to make the team are 2017 Asian junior champion Leong Jun Hao, independent shuttler Cheam June Wei and 19-year-old Eogene Ewe.
BAM will likely announce their Thomas Cup and Uber Cup squads a day before the April 13 deadline.