Don’t expect too much from Nicol and Co at Women’s World Team meet

KUALA LUMPUR: Nicol David’s form is on the slide. Low Wee Wern is still feeling her way back into the game after a serious knee injury.

So, don’t expect Malaysia to repeat the heroics of two years ago when Malaysia compete in the WSF Women’s World Team Championship in Paris, France, from Nov 27-Dec 3.

In 2014, the Malaysian women – comprising Nicol, Wee Wern, Delia Arnold and Zulhijjah Azan – defied the odds to finish as runners-up to England in Niagara, Canada.

Then, Malaysia stunned title-holders Egypt 2-0 in the semi-finals before going down fighting 2-1 to England in the final.

Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) director of coaching Major (rtd) S. Maniam explained that the team did well two years ago because “Wee Wern was in top form”.

“But it’s going to be difficult to repeat that feat because Wee Wern is not in her best form,” said Maniam, adding that Wee Wern is still trying to regain her form after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury last year.

Wee Wern’s world ranking has also slipped from No. 7 two years ago to No. 24 this month. But it’s not just Wee Wern. Even Nicol has failed to impress in tournaments this year. The 33-year-old has not won a professional title since bagging the Hong Kong Open last November.

No wonder Maniam said that he would be happy “if Malaysia can finish among top four in Paris”.

He expects Malaysia to face a strong challenge from the likes of England, Egypt, France, Hong Kong and India.

World No. 3 Nicol, world No. 15 Delia and Wee Wern are confirmed for the Paris meet while the fourth player will be a toss-up between Asian Junior Under-19 champion S. Sivasangari and Delia’s younger sister, Rachel.

“We will name the fourth member of the team in the next two weeks,” said Maniam.