THE PROBABLE MALAYSIAN LINE-UP FOR 2020?
(Age in bracket)
FIRST SINGLES LEE ZII JIA (20)
He has proven himself at the Thomas Cup Finals and showed Malaysia that he is an able replacement for Lee Chong Wei. Has the height, reach and flair. Dares to attack and face any opponent.Has leadership qualities but needs more exposure. His game is a bit similar to former great Wong Choong Hann.
FIRST DOUBLES
TEO EE YI (25)-ONG YEW SIN (23)
They reached world No. 17 at one stage and have the potential. Unfortunately, only Ee Yi was selected for the Finals. Ee Yi is hard-working and determined. To complement Ee Yi well, Yew Sin must be more focused in training.
SECOND SINGLES
CHEAM JUNE WEI (21)
At 18, June Wei was touted as Malaysia’s top player. Unfortunately, he was not given as many chances as the others over the last two years under Morten Frost and an injury slowed him down. He’s talented and under Datuk Misbun Sidek, June Wei has rediscovered his passion for the game.
SECOND DOUBLES
AARON CHIA (21)-SOH WOOI YIK (20)
In just six months, Aaron and Wooi Yik have hit it off superbly. They have good chemistry and with the right guidance, they can be world beaters. Aaron is aggressive and Wooi Yik is an expert at the front court. They should be given a chance to play together as they have what it takes to make it big.
THIRD SINGLES
LEONG JUN HAO (19)
Jun Hao showed his determination to be a star after winning the Asian junior title last year. Very focused, determined and hungry for opportunities to compete. Quite a cunning and deceptive player. His style reminds one of a young Chong Wei.
RESERVE SINGLES TAN JIA WEI (20)
The Penang lad joined the senior team in 2016 and won the Poland Open International Challenge. Hard-working. Throw anything at him and he’ll take it on. Has the potential to go far.
RESERVE DOUBLES GOH SZE FEI (21)-NUR IZZUDDIN RUMSANI (21)
They were very impressive en route to winning the 2017 Malaysian Masters but their form has dipped. A talented pair but the coaches must find ways to bring them back to form. Managed the right way, they can go far.