KUALA LUMPUR (8 MAY 2010) – Malaysia’s second doubles pair of Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif will have to prove their worth against Japan in their second Group B match if they want to keep their place.
Team manager Datuk Syed Abu Bakar Abdullah said the pair will be tried out against Japan which could be make or break' for them.
Malaysia are expected to throw in their reserves in their opening Group B match against Nigeria tomorrow (6pm local time) at the Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
“Fairuzizuan and Zakry will have to perform against the Japanese. Anything less than a convincing performance will not do them any good. We will not hesitate to replace them,” said Syed Abu Bakar.
It has not been 'smooth sailing' for Fairuzizuan-Zakry and their ability to carry the challenge in the 26th edition of the Thomas Cup has raised serious doubts after the pair were beaten 21-18, 15-21, 17-21 by back-up squad’s Tan Wee Kiong-Mak Hee Chun in a simulation match at Juara Stadium recently.
Malaysia have named Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How as the reserve pair for the doubles and they are expected to be fielded against the Nigerians. World No 1 Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong are the top pair.
"I have told the players (both the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup) not to be distracted by anything at this stage. Just remain focused on our mission and give a committed 100 per cent effort,” said Syed Abu Bakar.
Malaysia last won the Thomas Cup in 1992 and hopes are that as hosts, they will end an 18-year wait to lift the silverware. Malaysia also hosted the Finals in 2000.
Syed Abu Bakar also revealed that Malaysia’s third singles Muhd Hafiz Hashim is in good shape despite having a slight running nose. Veteran Wong Choong Hann will play second singles while Tan Chun Tseang is the reserve.
“We will decide on the lineup for the Nigeria match later tonight,” added Syed Abu Bakar.
Source : Thomas & Uber Cup 2010 Official WebsiteN
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