Zii Jia can’t wait to start proper training again
LEE Zii Jia believes the longer he waits before playing competitive badminton, the better he will get.
This comes following the government's latest announcement on the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) that begins tomorrow.
The 22-year-old has been stuck at home in Alor Setar since March and is anxiously waiting to resume training.
However, Zii Jia is not too keen on returning to competitive action just yet.
After his semi-final feat at the All England last month, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) suspended all tournaments, including the Thomas and Uber Cups.
“I'll be honest. I have grown bored of just training at home as there isn't much motivation. I want to get back that court feeling again.
"I know this is something new. No one really knows what to do, but I'm hoping we can at least start training first.
“Players from China, Indonesia and Taiwan have started indoor training. I don't want to be left behind,” the World No 10 told
Timesport yesterday.
“On the other hand, I also think it's good that all tournaments including the Olympics and World Championships have been moved to next year.
"I am in no rush to play in competitions. At least, I have more time to work on getting my form back," he added.
Under the new CMCO, sporting activities, which do not involve physical contact, can resume with strict guidelines.
However, it remains to be seen if the BA of Malaysia (BAM) can recall their players for training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.
“BAM are doing their best to help us get back. They are pushing for players who are bound for the Olympics to return first.
"I hope we will hear some good news from the National Sports Council this week," Zii Jia said.
Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican is expected to chair the Road to Olympic steering committee meeting tomorrow before proposing new training standard operating procedures (SOPs) to the government.