KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's Thomas Cup team captain, Soh Wooi Yik, has admitted that seniors like him, his partner Aaron Chia, and Lee Zii Jia must deliver a point if they are to overcome Hong Kong in their opening Group D tie on Saturday.
"I predict the tie to be a tight one, 50-50. We are also aware that our second and third singles players may not be as experienced, so players like Aaron, Zii Jia and myself must step up to lead and inspire the rest," said Wooi Yik after the official flag handing over ceremony at the Academy Badminton Malaysia yesterday.
"The three of us are the most senior players in the squad, and the most experienced in top-tier tournaments like the Thomas Cup.
"It is also crucial that both our doubles pairs deliver a point against Hong Kong."
The other teams in Group D are European champions Denmark and Algeria. Only the top two teams advance to the last eight, and favourites Denmark are expected to top the group.
Wooi Yik, who is a first-time captain for the Thomas Cup, also acknowledged the fact that going into the competition in Chengdu, China, as underdogs has its advantages.
"I agree, similar to the squad that made the final in 2014, we are also starting as underdogs.
"However, there is an advantage, as it reduces the nerves on some of the junior players.
"If fact, if we can play to our true potential, we must believe that we can take on anybody.
"Since I was a kid, I have followed the Thomas Cup. It's such a prestigious event and it means a lot to our country.
"I know I am a first-time captain, but I have Aaron and Zii Jia as fellow seniors to help me lead this team."
When asked what he thought about the reward which BAM is willing to offer for the Thomas Cup, Wooi Yik quipped: "It's the Thomas Cup, I'm sure it will be a substantial figure.
"But having said that, as team captain my role is to lead the players to focus on each match first.
"Sure, the reward is a nice encouragement for us, but we need to deliver first or there will be nothing."
