BAM coaching director Wong Choong Hann (right) with Lee Zii Jia. - NSTP file pic
BAM coaching director Wong Choong Hann (right) with Lee Zii Jia. - NSTP file pic

BAM coaching director Wong Choong Hann admitted that Lee Zii Jia's resignation from the national team caught him by surprise.

All-England champion and World No 7 Zii Jia submitted his letter of resignation to BAM on Wednesday.

"It was definitely an unexpected move (from Zii Jia).

"We've seen a lot of rumours in the internet the past few days, but we've always believed that Zii Jia would stay and continue his progress at BAM," said Choong Hann yesterday.

"Will it be too late for Zii Jia to change his decision? We don't really know at this point.

"But there are many possibilities out there and there is still a lot of room for discussion as we have always opened up our platform for communication."

Choong Hann, however, added that Zii Jia leaving BAM would not mean the end of the road for his career.

"I am sure that he has had a lot of time to think this through as this is ultimately his own decision.

"Of course at BAM we have one of the best facilities in the world and I am sure even if Zii Jia goes down the path of a professional, he can find a place with similar facilities too.

"The more important question though, is whether can he find the right coaching to develop even further as a player?"

There is speculation that the Kedah-born Zii Jia will turn professional and join a club on a lucrative contract .