KUALA LUMPUR – Akademi Badminton Malaysia national coaching director Rexy Mainaky urges understanding rather than blame for Malaysia’s number one men’s singles player Lee Zii Jia’s decision to forgo the national training camp in preparation for the upcoming Thomas Cup on April 28.
Instead, the world number 11 player has opted to continue training independently under his coach, Wong Tat Meng.
Rexy concurs with Zii Jia’s request, as it was discussed in advance with the management of Team LZJ.
Additionally, Zii Jia is gearing up for the Paris Olympic Games in July.
“Yes, I was informed about this plan during my first meeting with Tat Meng and Lee Zii Yii (Team LZJ manager).
“They informed me that they only had a week to prepare after returning from the BAC, so we need to adapt to this situation.
“We understand that this year’s Thomas Cup coincides with the Olympics, but their commitment is also to compete in the Thomas Cup.
“For me, I can only remain positive, even though various things are happening within the team at the moment. What’s important is that we can only help to manage the situation and not blame each other,” said Rexy.
In addition to Zii Jia, another professional player called up to bolster the national squad for the Thomas Cup is Cheam June Wei, while Goh Jin Wei will represent the Uber Cup squad.
The national team has only seven days to prepare for the team world championship before departing for Chengdu on April 24.
Due to this, the Malaysian badminton camp cannot proceed with its plan for a team-building camp to foster camaraderie among the players.
“It would only be more effective if we had the entire team.
“If one or two players are absent, it’s not a good plan,” he added.
In this year’s Thomas Cup competition, Malaysia is drawn in Group D alongside Denmark, Hong Kong, and Algeria. – April 16, 2024