KUALA LUMPUR: Fit-again Haikal Nazri is brimming with excitement as he returns to the World Tour.
Haikal is eager to make a swift impact with his partner Choong Hon Jian by winning the Orleans Masters in France on March 12-17.
Aware that the Super 300 tournament clashes with the All England, Haikal understands the importance of seizing the opportunity in the absence of top contenders as they strive to secure their third World Tour title.
Seeded fourth, Haikal-Hon Jian appear to have a clear path to the quarter-finals before facing their first stiff challenge, possibly against India's fifth seeds M. R. Arjun-Dhruv Kapila.
In the upper half of the draw, they may encounter tough resistance from China's Xie Hao Nan-Zeng Wei Han, who recently defeated Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik during Malaysia's final loss to China at the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC), and Germany's top seeds Marvin Seidel-Marks Lamfuss.
"We have seen the draw, and we believe we have what it takes to emerge as champions," said Haikal.
"We have achieved it before (winning the Syed Modi India International Super 300 last year) and are eager to repeat our success.
"Although it will not be easy, we are determined to give our best. Despite our seeding, we are not underestimating any opponent.
"We are aware that we might face the pair who recently defeated Aaron-Wooi Yik in the same half of the draw."
Haikal-Hon Jian have also confirmed their participation in the Swiss Open from March 19-24.
Haikal was forced to withdraw midway through a first-round match during the Thailand Masters due to an ankle injury. Fortunately, the injury wasn't as severe as initially feared.
However, Haikal managed to recover in time for the BATC but did not play any matches, although he was surprisingly named as the third singles player against China in the final.
The third singles was not played as China won the opening three matches.
"I'm eager to get back on court. One of the reasons for my swift recovery was my high level of motivation," he explained.
"Knowing that we have several upcoming tournaments to prepare for, I am highly motivated to return in peak condition.
"We also hope to impress the coaches and enhance our chances of being selected for the Thomas Cup.
"Considering there are many senior pairs ahead of us, the only way to catch their attention is by winning a title, and the Orleans Masters present us with a great opportunity to do so."
