RUSSIA VOW TO SHOCK MALAYSIA

Skipper Ivanov believes they can upstage ‘inexperienced’ rivals

THE Russians are not taking a low profile against Malaysia. Russia have vowed to shock Lee Chong Wei and his men in their opening Thomas Cup Group D tie on Monday.

They have made no secret of their intention to book their spot in the knockout stage of the Thomas Cup at the expense of Malaysia.

Russia skipper Vladimir Ivanov believes that the Europeans have a chance to upstage Malaysia, especially with the BA of Malaysia deciding to name a seemingly inexperienced team for the Thomas Cup finals.

When met at the IMPACT Arena on Friday, Ivanov said the Russians are confident of staging an upset.

“Yes, we do feel we have a good chance this year. Looking at the Malaysian team, we might just be able to win some matches.

“Apart from the top guys (Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong), the other (Malaysian) doubles players are not very experienced. This is probably good for us, because Denmark are the clear favourites and it would be tough to beat their star-studded squad,” said Ivanov, who forms Russia’s No 1 men’s doubles with Ivan Sozonov.

According to Ivanov, Russia will not be banking on their doubles alone, as the team are also hoping to win a couple points from the singles.

First singles Vladimir Malkov may be ranked World No 51 but he has got his sights on scoring an upset win over Lee Chong Wei.

“I know it won’t be easy, but I promise to give him (Chong Wei) a good fight if I get to play him. I remind myself that Chong Wei is not invincible.

“If you remember Brice Leverdez (France) upsetting him at the World Championships, then I, too, can do it, if I put on a good show,” added Malkov.

Apart from Denmark, Malaysia and Russia, the other team in the group are African champions Algeria.

The tournament proper begins tomorrow but the Group D action only kicks off the following day.