KUALA LUMPUR – Choong Hon Jian refuses to be labelled a mere passenger in the national squad as Malaysia gear up for their mission to conquer the Thomas Cup, set to commence in Chengdu, China, this Saturday.
The 23-year-old men’s doubles player was added to the roster at the eleventh hour to replace men’s singles player Ng Tze Yong, who requires another surgery on his back.
This adjustment reunites Hon Jian with his current teammate Haikal Nazri, who had earlier been listed by the coaching staff for the journey to Chengdu.
“I feel very happy to be listed for the Thomas Cup even though it was at the last minute. I didn’t expect it because the coaching staff had a choice at that time, whether to list a singles player or a doubles player.
“For me, there is no room for jealousy when the coaching staff initially listed only Haikal. To me, whoever is qualified, we are all one team, so I can’t think like that,” said Hon Jian.
His inclusion strengthens Malaysia’s squad with three men’s doubles pairs, including Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, alongside four men’s singles players: Lee Zii Jia, Leong Jun Hao, Cheam June Wei and Justin Hoh.
Despite being designated as the third men’s doubles pair, Hon Jian and Haikal are far from mere benchwarmers. Instead, they are ready to be fielded in any match if needed.
Malaysia will begin their Thomas Cup campaign in Group D against Hong Kong on Saturday, followed by a match against Algeria on Sunday, and the crucial final group match against Denmark on Tuesday.
“One of the positive things we all felt during the central training camp the other day was building a high team spirit.
“We not only trained together but also engaged in team-building activities.
“Now that I’m on the roster, I will definitely give my all if given the chance to play,” he added. – April 25, 2024