汤姆斯杯
Thomas Cup

A组 中国 德国 印度
GA: CHN GER IND
B组 韩国 印尼 新西兰
GB: KOR INA NZL
C组 丹麦 日本 南非
GC: DEN JPN SRA
D组 马来西亚 英格兰 美国
GD: MAS ENG USA

尤伯杯
Uber Cup

W组 中国 台北 美国
GW: CHN TPE USA
X组 荷兰 英格兰 香港
GX: NED ENG HKG
Y组 韩国 德国 新加坡
GY: KOR GER SIN
Z组 日本 新西兰 南非
GZ: JPN NZL SRA

thanks for the info.

wow..we will see interesting strategy for TC. Difficult choice for indo, be a winner of the group and most likely meet china in the semi or 2nd in the group BUT facing malaysia in the quarter.

thanks for the info.

wow..we will see interesting strategy for TC. Difficult choice for indo, be a winner of the group and most likely meet china in the semi or 2nd in the group BUT facing malaysia in the quarter.

i think we should avoid meeting china before final. we really need the final"atmosphere"to wake the monster within Taufik (it started to feel like japanese comic).

i think denmark has the best draw in TC - almost guaranteed a place in SF and is not in the same half as china


looks like msia has to battle it out again with korea or ina - just like the qualifiers

I agree, tough draw for Indonesia, whatever ranking they have in the group, they will meet someone tough. I really doubt Taufik will give it his all in Japan. While he did say that one of his aims is to bring TC back to Indonesia, I think we can also see that he is very affected by the new scoring system. He has to get it into his head that he has to live with it and just play. If he does his job and the two MD pairs do their jobs as well, INA will be a tough one to deal with, even China will have to admit that.

i think denmark has the best draw in TC - almost guaranteed a place in SF and is not in the same half as china




yes, denmark has relatively easiest draw compare to MAS,INA,KOR, unless JPN is really crazy in front home crowd and make the upset which will cause DEN fall in the same half as china :D

i think we should avoid meeting china before final. we really need the final"atmosphere"to wake the monster within Taufik (it started to feel like japanese comic).
I think it is easier for Indonesia to handle China than Malaysia. Against China, Indonesia already have two MD points in hand even before the game started, need another 1 point from MS either from Taufik or Sony. If they make it, Indonesia should enter the final ( If they are Group B winner ).
Malaysia did not send CTF/LWW in TC Asian Qualifying round as second doubles, LWW/CTF even defeated Indonesia top MD pair Candra/Sigit in AE2006 second round, due to world ranking, LWW/CTF should be Malaysian second or third doubles but in fact they are Malaysia strongest doubles. It will be difficult for Indonesia to take two MD points from Malaysia. Malaysian third single, Wong CH even defeated Taufik Hidayat in Hong Kong Open 2005 and Simon Santoso in Manila SEA Games, with Kuan Beng Hong as 4th singles, already strong enough to beat Simon Santoso, I think if Malaysia to meet Indonesia in Japan, it won't be Kuan anymore but Wong CH should be the third single. The chances of beating Malaysia is lower than beating China.
Indonesia should try their best to beat Korea to become Group B winner and to beat China in the semifinal.

yes, denmark has relatively easiest draw compare to MAS,INA,KOR, unless JPN is really crazy in front home crowd and make the upset which will cause DEN fall in the same half as china :D

Denmark should beat Japan 5-0 in front of Japanese home crowd. I remember last year Malaysian Lee CW beat Japanese first single Shoji Sato 15-3, 15-0 during Sudirman Cup in China. I think Peter Gade could do better than that. :D

I think Malaysia have a comfortable draw. I hope they will not waste this opportunity.

I think Malaysia have a comfortable draw. I hope they will not waste this opportunity.
I guess Indonesia should be able to beat Korea in Group B. (Unless Indonesia purposely want to loose out to Korea in order to meet Malaysia in quarterfinal which I think it is not a good idea as Malaysia beaten Indonesia twice in their recent met.) So, Korea (B2)would likely to beat A3 ( either India or Germany ) to meet up Malaysia in quarterfinal.
Malaysia should beat Korea at least 3-1 with LWW/CTF as second doubles. Even if third single service required, Wong CH should be able to beat all his opponents in TC final round easily other than China third single BCL or Chen Jin or XXZ.
The tough match for Malaysia should be against Denmark in semifinal, it should be 50-50. :D

Wong CH should be able to beat all his opponents in TC final round easily other than China third single BCL or Chen Jin or XXZ.


I didn't realize that Chen Hong now has higher ranking than BCL, that means China has lots of options in MS depending on who is their opponent.

I dont think the Men's Doubles is as clear cut as that - keeping in mind the last time that Wijaya/Budiarto met Fu/Cai under the 21 point scoring system, the Indonesians lost. Much as I like Sigit and Candra, I dont think Indonesia they would have an easy draw against China.

I think it is easier for Indonesia to handle China than Malaysia. Against China, Indonesia already have two MD points in hand even before the game started

I dont think the Men's Doubles is as clear cut as that - keeping in mind the last time that Wijaya/Budiarto met Fu/Cai under the 21 point scoring system, the Indonesians lost. Much as I like Sigit and Candra, I dont think Indonesia they would have an easy draw against China.

yes, agree, no guarantee MD points for indo when meeting china, mas, kor and den, especially under 21-scoring system. even when meeting mas again, it could go either way.

I think Malaysia have a comfortable draw. I hope they will not waste this opportunity.

I don't think so. In order to win the TC, Malaysia need to beat 3 out of the Big 5. Tough draw. However, hope they could take a step at a time, you just have to be the best in order to win. No short cut.

Hmm..I didn't expect the draw to come out so fast. I thought it will be done sometime in March? Anyway, the draw does seem to be unfavorable to Team Indonesia because they already have to face one of the seeds in the group (Korea). Luckily, Korea is probably the weakest among the top 4 seeds (the others being China, Denmark, and Malaysia). However, can Indonesia beat Korea at the present state?

I think they are certainly more manageable than Malaysia. If Taufik is in top form, he will beat Lee Hyun-Il. The doubles should also take care of the Korean youngsters. The only tricky thing is that you will never expect which doubles pair the Korean pick for the ties. They have numerous combinations to choose from Jung Jae Sung, Lee Jae Jin, Lee Yong Dae, Hwang Ji-Man, and Han Sang-Hoon. Any 4 players they choose will still be a threat and it will almost certainly include Lee Jae Jin.

I personally think Indonesia's chance is about 30-40%. With luck on their side, I think Denmark can win it.

Under the new 21 point system.. anything can go wrong.

thanks for the info cxytdn

yes, i tend to agree also Denmark has a pretty easy draw up til the semifinal..

wow, looking at the draw, it is an interesting one....this could be a spoiler and the one group that i am particularly interested in is group D. I think that is the group of "death". Why??..because all 3 teams, IMO, have balanced matches and esp. of team USA's presence...WOW!!!.. :eek: :rolleyes: :cool:

True, it'll be almost impossible for team USA to win the group, but who knows if they can go in there with a no pressure attitude, i think at least they can give MAS a run for their money. Esp. with Tony Gunawan achoring that squad. All they have to hope for is their 2nd MD(who knows what pairings they will offer) and hopefully Raju Rai(MS) can compete with whoever MAS has to offer. I would tend to think Tony will observed how the ties will be played and if by some miracle it is 2-2 then he will pair up as the 2nd MD pair. I can sense they can finish as the 2nd ranked team in that group ahead of England. If indeed that is the case, then i can foresee a match of them vs. the 3rd ranked team from group C. Winner of that tie will then face China in the quarterfinal...

As for team Indonesia, if i were them, this is what i would do. Maybe this sounds silly and less "honorable". But I would try to finish as the 3rd team in group B. :eek: :rolleyes: Yup, that's right, finish as the the 3rd team. Why? In doing so, they will avoid facing either MAS, JPN, ENG, USA. in the round of 16. Doing so, will also guarantee them to avoid an early meeting with any the top 4 seeds before the QF. Also finishing 3rd will give them a choice to play either the 2nd ranked team in group A(either GER or IND) in the round of 16 and then facing the winner of group C in the QF, which most likely be Denmark. If they should come out of the QF round, then they should most likely meet MAS in the Semifinal for another rematch of the Asian qualifying round. Winner of that tie will then face China for the glory.
Of course, i wouldn't do that if i was the coach and know that my players are ready no matter who they face. But in terms of of strategy/tactic-wise, i think that's the "least risk" route possible. Of course, other teams in other groups will think and devise a similar plan to do the same...hehe.. :p ;)

Hmm..I didn't expect the draw to come out so fast. I thought it will be done sometime in March? Anyway, the draw does seem to be unfavorable to Team Indonesia because they already have to face one of the seeds in the group (Korea). Luckily, Korea is probably the weakest among the top 4 seeds (the others being China, Denmark, and Malaysia). However, can Indonesia beat Korea at the present state?

I think they are certainly more manageable than Malaysia. If Taufik is in top form, he will beat Lee Hyun-Il. The doubles should also take care of the Korean youngsters. The only tricky thing is that you will never expect which doubles pair the Korean pick for the ties. They have numerous combinations to choose from Jung Jae Sung, Lee Jae Jin, Lee Yong Dae, Hwang Ji-Man, and Han Sang-Hoon. Any 4 players they choose will still be a threat and it will almost certainly include Lee Jae Jin.

I personally think Indonesia's chance is about 30-40%. With luck on their side, I think Denmark can win it.
Yes, the draw announcement was sudden also, but was posted in the IBF website couple of days ago...http://www.internationalbadminton.org/

As for their chances, i would put them as 50-50. It all basically depends on which team(s) they play leading up to the Finals.
Yah, INA will be in a tricky and tough spot in their group. However, if i were INA i wouldn't worry where i'd finish in my group. The key is, again, which team will they play in order of succession. If they plan and play their cards right and hope for some luck, they can avoid playing any of the top 4 seed before the QF. If i were the coaching staff, i would try to meet DEN first in QF then MAS in SF before facing CHN for the big finale. I would let all the top 4 seeds fight it out first before the QF... :rolleyes: :)

I don't think so. In order to win the TC, Malaysia need to beat 3 out of the Big 5. Tough draw. However, hope they could take a step at a time, you just have to be the best in order to win. No short cut.
i think this holds true for all the top 5 ranked teams...no short cut..but for sure, they will avoid meeting INA and China before Semifinals..;)

Under the new 21 point system.. anything can go wrong.
concur whole-heartedly here ants!an upset or two could bound to happen..hehe-;) :p

There is a problem that the WR of Feb.23 2006 didn't include the points of TUC Qualification. I think maybe the EBU will take a question on it. Maybe redraw? Who know?

thanks for the info.

wow..we will see interesting strategy for TC. Difficult choice for indo, be a winner of the group and most likely meet china in the semi or 2nd in the group BUT facing malaysia in the quarter.

malaysia also wants to avoid indoensia :)

yes, denmark has relatively easiest draw compare to MAS,INA,KOR, unless JPN is really crazy in front home crowd and make the upset which will cause DEN fall in the same half as china :D

i believe ' a bushido spirit' will beat denmark :D

For me, INA is always the most trickiest team in TC (now & past). There can choice any way to shock you. I think they will probably meet MAS fist rather than meet CHN. My reason as below:

** INA has experienced twince against MAS recently, and they know which players (especially MD) should they play agaist MAS. And INA well-informed about MAS palyers.
** But INA has no idea yet against CHN in Team event; which they are hard to estimate the matches.

Sorry to say "INA is always the most trickiest team in TC (now & past)", but that is the fact. That's made them dominated TC. The only big title INA wants is TC not the rest. Again, for me... INA always have great chances in TC~!

As for team Indonesia, if i were them, this is what i would do. Maybe this sounds silly and less "honorable". But I would try to finish as the 3rd team in group B. :eek: :rolleyes: Yup, that's right, finish as the the 3rd team. Why? In doing so, they will avoid facing either MAS, JPN, ENG, USA. in the round of 16. Doing so, will also guarantee them to avoid an early meeting with any the top 4 seeds before the QF. Also finishing 3rd will give them a choice to play either the 2nd ranked team in group A(either GER or IND) in the round of 16 and then facing the winner of group C in the QF, which most likely be Denmark. If they should come out of the QF round, then they should most likely meet MAS in the Semifinal for another rematch of the Asian qualifying round. Winner of that tie will then face China for the glory.
Of course, i wouldn't do that if i was the coach and know that my players are ready no matter who they face. But in terms of of strategy/tactic-wise, i think that's the "least risk" route possible. Of course, other teams in other groups will think and devise a similar plan to do the same...hehe.. :p ;)

good strategy, avoid early meeting with china... we must finish as the 3rd, and we must beat germany or india and then facing denmark

ina official must be ready to bare 'the humiliation (rasa malu :) )' and bashing from 'local press' for further goal the tc final

I guess Indonesia should be able to beat Korea in Group B. (Unless Indonesia purposely want to loose out to Korea in order to meet Malaysia in quarterfinal which I think it is not a good idea as Malaysia beaten Indonesia twice in their recent met.) So, Korea (B2)would likely to beat A3 ( either India or Germany ) to meet up Malaysia in quarterfinal.
Malaysia should beat Korea at least 3-1 with LWW/CTF as second doubles. Even if third single service required, Wong CH should be able to beat all his opponents in TC final round easily other than China third single BCL or Chen Jin or XXZ.
The tough match for Malaysia should be against Denmark in semifinal, it should be 50-50. :DWell, this seems like the ideal situation for Korea to employ the strategy it showed us in the last Sudirman Cup. If they choose again to play their weakest players in order to give them their pensions, then they could end up second in their group and bank on taking Malaysia and Denmark on the way to the final against China. On the other hand, their chances of beating both Denmark and Malaysia are so slim that they might be better off aiming for a semi-final loss against China after beating an Indonesian team that might be thankful for the loss in group play since they actually do have a chance of beating Malaysia and Denmark. Korea can then either make an effort to win or play their fourth string in the semi-final.

Firstly, if your ambition is to win, then you will have to beat all the other Big 5 teams that you meet. If your ambition is just to reach the final, then there are lots of hanky panky that one can play. I believe, all the Big 5 teams are out to win the Cup, and I trust they will try to win all ties. Even if Indonesia or Korea wants to get second placing, I don't think any will want the last place (like some of you suggest).

China and Denmark have the easiest tasks. They are likely to stroll to the semifinals.

Korea v Indonesia is a big match, but the result will probably be inconsequential. On the one hand, the loser will have to play an extra match before facing (probably) Malaysia and then Denmark before they can reach the final. On the other hand, the winner can have a rest day before an easy quarterfinal (probably Japan), and then face (probably) China before they can reach the final. So, loser - last 16, Malaysia, Denmark, final; winner - rest, Japan, China, final. Actually, I would choose to be the winner because it is slightly easier and the attitude of avoiding China is a defeatist attitude.

Malaysia once again has the rotten luck of being almost assured of a Big 5 encounter in the quarterfinals. However, like I've said, if you want to win the Cup, then you have to get past everything that's thrown at you. It does not matter whether you lose in the quarters or the finals. Either you win the Cup or don't win it.

In the Uber Cup, it is difficult to imagine a scenario other than China v (Japan v Korea).

The second group with Ned, Eng and Hkg is interesting by itself. If there will be any group in which all members finish with a 1 win, 1 loss record, it will be this one.

thanks for the info cxytdn

yes, i tend to agree also Denmark has a pretty easy draw up til the semifinal..

wow, looking at the draw, it is an interesting one....this could be a spoiler and the one group that i am particularly interested in is group D. I think that is the group of "death". Why??..because all 3 teams, IMO, have balanced matches and esp. of team USA's presence...WOW!!!.. :eek: :rolleyes: :cool:

True, it'll be almost impossible for team USA to win the group, but who knows if they can go in there with a no pressure attitude, i think at least they can give MAS a run for their money. Esp. with Tony Gunawan achoring that squad. All they have to hope for is their 2nd MD(who knows what pairings they will offer) and hopefully Raju Rai(MS) can compete with whoever MAS has to offer. I would tend to think Tony will observed how the ties will be played and if by some miracle it is 2-2 then he will pair up as the 2nd MD pair. I can sense they can finish as the 2nd ranked team in that group ahead of England. If indeed that is the case, then i can foresee a match of them vs. the 3rd ranked team from group C. Winner of that tie will then face China in the quarterfinal...

As for team Indonesia, if i were them, this is what i would do. Maybe this sounds silly and less "honorable". But I would try to finish as the 3rd team in group B. :eek: :rolleyes: Yup, that's right, finish as the the 3rd team. Why? In doing so, they will avoid facing either MAS, JPN, ENG, USA. in the round of 16. Doing so, will also guarantee them to avoid an early meeting with any the top 4 seeds before the QF. Also finishing 3rd will give them a choice to play either the 2nd ranked team in group A(either GER or IND) in the round of 16 and then facing the winner of group C in the QF, which most likely be Denmark. If they should come out of the QF round, then they should most likely meet MAS in the Semifinal for another rematch of the Asian qualifying round. Winner of that tie will then face China for the glory.
Of course, i wouldn't do that if i was the coach and know that my players are ready no matter who they face. But in terms of of strategy/tactic-wise, i think that's the "least risk" route possible. Of course, other teams in other groups will think and devise a similar plan to do the same...hehe.. :p ;)

Pathetic and avoid-ist

Pathetic and avoid-ist

I agree. No matter how tactical you want to be, if you want to be the best in the world, you have to play against some of the very best the tournament has to offer. There is no short cut. The INA tactic should be simple: CHN, DEN or MAS, go out there, do your very best and win!

Anyone know the actual schedule? The match start on 28 April, what time will it begin and which country are going to play on that day?

IBF should consider the draw of the quarter matches only after the completion of all group matches (just like what happens to European football matches). This would avoid any pre-fix of the results in my opinion.

Firstly, if your ambition is to win, then you will have to beat all the other Big 5 teams that you meet. If your ambition is just to reach the final, then there are lots of hanky panky that one can play. I believe, all the Big 5 teams are out to win the Cup, and I trust they will try to win all ties. Even if Indonesia or Korea wants to get second placing, I don't think any will want the last place (like some of you suggest).

China and Denmark have the easiest tasks. They are likely to stroll to the semifinals.

Korea v Indonesia is a big match, but the result will probably be inconsequential. On the one hand, the loser will have to play an extra match before facing (probably) Malaysia and then Denmark before they can reach the final. On the other hand, the winner can have a rest day before an easy quarterfinal (probably Japan), and then face (probably) China before they can reach the final. So, loser - last 16, Malaysia, Denmark, final; winner - rest, Japan, China, final. Actually, I would choose to be the winner because it is slightly easier and the attitude of avoiding China is a defeatist attitude.

Malaysia once again has the rotten luck of being almost assured of a Big 5 encounter in the quarterfinals. However, like I've said, if you want to win the Cup, then you have to get past everything that's thrown at you. It does not matter whether you lose in the quarters or the finals. Either you win the Cup or don't win it.
I agree also, if i was the coaching staff, i would expect and want my players to be ready and to face whoever is in their way and do their best. I did mentioned all of the top ranked teams will have to go through all the 4 seeded teams, didn't i??..Getting a 1 day break to rest is also beneficial rather than play an extra tie. That's a more "honorable" thing to do...but we'll see what comes up..

Pathetic and avoid-ist
..yah, i agree it's a "pathetic and avoid-ist" attitude, i did mentioned that did i??.....That's why i said that's called a "strategy/plan"...
BTW, i like the large, bold punctuation words there.. ;) :)

I agree. No matter how tactical you want to be, if you want to be the best in the world, you have to play against some of the very best the tournament has to offer. There is no short cut. The INA tactic should be simple: CHN, DEN or MAS, go out there, do your very best and win!
..yah agree, there should be no short cut..i wouldn't mind the INA face and if all possible play CHN, MAS, DEN or KOR or whoever the top ranked teams are, win or lose..if possible, any team that wants to win the title should have a "take em all" attitude, en route to winning the title..That would really prove that the winner deserve and earn the Cup, correct??.. :rolleyes: :cool:

True, it'll be almost impossible for team USA to win the group, but who knows if they can go in there with a no pressure attitude, i think at least they can give MAS a run for their money. Esp. with Tony Gunawan achoring that squad. All they have to hope for is their 2nd MD(who knows what pairings they will offer) and hopefully Raju Rai(MS) can compete with whoever MAS has to offer. I would tend to think Tony will observed how the ties will be played and if by some miracle it is 2-2 then he will pair up as the 2nd MD pair. I can sense they can finish as the 2nd ranked team in that group ahead of England. If indeed that is the case, then i can foresee a match of them vs.

though i'm no badminton specialist/strategist etc etc - i really do not see how USA can come close to msia. apart from tony/howard, i don't think any of the other players will have any decent chance of winning a tie. i don't really see them edging england either. this is only a personal opinion - a fairly realistic one too, i believe.

汤姆斯杯
Thomas Cup

A组 中国 德国 印度
GA: CHN GER IND
B组 韩国 印尼 新西兰
GB: KOR INA NZL
C组 丹麦 日本 南非
GC: DEN JPN SRA
D组 马来西亚 英格兰 美国
GD: MAS ENG USA

尤伯杯
Uber Cup

W组 中国 台北 美国
GW: CHN TPE USA
X组 荷兰 英格兰 香港
GX: NED ENG HKG
Y组 韩国 德国 新加坡
GY: KOR GER SIN
Z组 日本 新西兰 南非
GZ: JPN NZL SRA

Well I think the real threat now for Indonesia is not China, but Malaysia. I think Malaysia is more dangerous than China.

I am pretty sure that Indonesia will be able to handle Korea. Lee Hyung Ill has never defeated Taufik his their 4 encounters. And the Korean doubles are now not as strong as they were in the past.

When Ina meets China, this would be very interesting. I am pretty sure too that Indonesia will win over Chine 3-2.

Well I think the real threat now for Indonesia is not China, but Malaysia. I think Malaysia is more dangerous than China.

I am pretty sure that Indonesia will be able to handle Korea. Lee Hyung Ill has never defeated Taufik his their 4 encounters. And the Korean doubles are now not as strong as they were in the past.

When Ina meets China, this would be very interesting. I am pretty sure too that Indonesia will win over Chine 3-2.

:confused: How you are very sure that INA will win over CHN 3-2? If INA wins CHN, then I think the result should be 3-1.

Matches Prediction:
Taufik beat LD 1-0
Candra/sdigit beat Fu/Cai 2-0
Sony lose BCL/CH 2-1
Alvin/Luluk beat CHN 2nd Doubles 3-1

You said 3-2 which means you are very confident that INA 3rd singles (probably Simon Santoso) could beat CHN 3rd singles (either Bao Chun Lai or Chen Jin)? I don't think so.

For me.... CHN has many choices of MS to face INA, but INA doesn't have. And what we all espect is Taufik is the KEY of winning TC. If Taufik loses, then nothing to say, the whole team will be destroyed. But if you look on CHN team, they are not only depend on LD or any individuals. Overall, CHN team is MUCH MUCH MUCH stronger than INA .... this is the fact, no doubt~!

But again .... for me, INA is always have the great chances to bring back TC.

though i'm no badminton specialist/strategist etc etc - i really do not see how USA can come close to msia. apart from tony/howard, i don't think any of the other players will have any decent chance of winning a tie. i don't really see them edging england either. this is only a personal opinion - a fairly realistic one too, i believe.

I have to agree with you on that. Unless they naturalise some foreign talents soon, I don't see how they can even come close to England.

1st Singles
2nd Singles
3rd Singles
1st Doubles
2nd Doubles

1st Singles

2nd Singles
3rd Singles
1st Doubles
2nd Doubles

:eek: Where did you get this info?

:confused: How you are very sure that INA will win over CHN 3-2? If INA wins CHN, then I think the result should be 3-1.

Matches Prediction:
Taufik beat LD 1-0
Candra/sdigit beat Fu/Cai 2-0
Sony lose BCL/CH 2-1
Alvin/Luluk beat CHN 2nd Doubles 3-1

You said 3-2 which means you are very confident that INA 3rd singles (probably Simon Santoso) could beat CHN 3rd singles (either Bao Chun Lai or Chen Jin)? I don't think so.

For me.... CHN has many choices of MS to face INA, but INA doesn't have. And what we all espect is Taufik is the KEY of winning TC. If Taufik loses, then nothing to say, the whole team will be destroyed. But if you look on CHN team, they are not only depend on LD or any individuals. Overall, CHN team is MUCH MUCH MUCH stronger than INA .... this is the fact, no doubt~!

But again .... for me, INA is always have the great chances to bring back TC.

Taufik has a better chance of winning over whoever player fielded (China)
Yes...if Taufik loses, then that's the end of the dream. The key is at the hand of Taufik.

I have read it in a Chinese website too, not sure whether it is sure. The article commented that the new system of having three single matches followed by two double matches might jeopardize China's chances of winning the Thomas Cup.



:eek: Where did you get this info?

Taufik has a better chance of winning over whoever player fielded (China)
Yes...if Taufik loses, then that's the end of the dream. The key is at the hand of Taufik.
that is great pressure ... good luck Taufik

I have read it in a Chinese website too, not sure whether it is sure. The article commented that the new system of having three single matches followed by two double matches might jeopardize China's chances of winning the Thomas Cup.

i don't understand why it will jeopardize China's chances. I thought that if new system implemented will favor China as they have deep and strong in MS department, in fact they can just go ahead 3-0 with all the MS played first.

i just read one of the indo's news (jawa pos) about the draw of TC/UC and it's very funny that the indo official (Lius Pongoh) doesn't know the format of the competition from preliminaries to the Final, they only know about group draw, so he still assumes that only winner and runner up of the group will through to quarter final and the format is group A winner will face group B runner up, same thing for other groups. he also claims IBF didn't inform them about the recent draw date as he thought the draw would be held on 13th March.

So Badminton Central is much faster/more updated then PBSI officials hahaha

Taufik has a better chance of winning over whoever player fielded (China)
.


:rolleyes: Not really ..... Taufik has never beated Bao Chun Lai in history if not my mistaken. Actually Taufik hard to win over tall players such as Bao Chun Lai, and even Wong Choong Hann (that's why Taufik has bad record against WCH 3:7).

If I were Li Yong Bo, I would let BCL against Taufik. And Chen Jin/Chen Hong against Sony, then Xie Xuan Ze or who else against Simon. So 3 points to settle INA easily and early. ;)

Anyhow, don't only depend on the unstable palyer like Taufik. We must look on the others as well.

:rolleyes: Not really ..... Taufik has never beated Bao Chun Lai in history if not my mistaken. Actually Taufik hard to win over tall players such as Bao Chun Lai, and even Wong Choong Hann (that's why Taufik has bad record against WCH 3:7).

If I were Li Yong Bo, I would let BCL against Taufik. And Chen Jin/Chen Hong against Sony, then Xie Xuan Ze or who else against Simon. So 3 points to settle INA easily and early. ;)

Anyhow, don't only depend on the unstable palyer like Taufik. We must look on the others as well.

for sure, Taufik has beaten BCL in indo open 2003 and sudirman cup 2003, maybe in other encounters as well, can't remember, it just that BCL has better record against taufik, that's it. i agree that taufik has difficulties when facing BCL and WCH, but not all the tall players, i.e Kenneth J, maybe it's due to playing style rather than posture.

i don't understand why it will jeopardize China's chances. I thought that if new system implemented will favor China as they have deep and strong in MS department, in fact they can just go ahead 3-0 with all the MS played first.

Actually, the order of play only affects the excitement for the spectators. (Assuming that if a player plays both singles and doubles, the arrangement will change accordingly.)

It will neither favour nor jeopardize China's chances. Every player is out there to win.

It used to be all the singles then doubles. They changed it to the current system because it is no fun if China kept winning 3-0. Spectators also want to see doubles action, which in many ways is more exciting than singles.

Actually, the order of play only affects the excitement for the spectators. (Assuming that if a player plays both singles and doubles, the arrangement will change accordingly.)

It does change the pressure put onto the players too!
Starting by all three singles should advantage China as they will probably win the tie 3-0 most times.
And if they are only leading 2-1 after the MS, their doubles only need to score one more point to win the tie, so the pressure will be on the opponents who won't be allowed any mistake...

1st Singles


2nd Singles
3rd Singles
1st Doubles
2nd Doubles




I think this is only for round robin competition within the three teams in the group match.:D

thanks for the info.

wow..we will see interesting strategy for TC. Difficult choice for indo, be a winner of the group and most likely meet china in the semi or 2nd in the group BUT facing malaysia in the quarter.

Indonesia had the toughest test ever. My suggestion is fight the best. If they lost to Korea purposely in group B, in order not to meet China in semifinal, they will had to beat Malay in QF, Denmark in SF and China in F.

And the players will lost their confidence cause the coach didn't believe them enough to beat China in SF. So better fight their best. If they can won over Korea, they probably only had to fight tough opponents in SF and final.

Compare if they deliberately lost to Korea, they had to met 3 tough teams from QF, not to mention they had to fight India or German to grab a QF place.

Meanwhile, Malay will had one day rest if they top group D.

Lost to China in SF is not a shameful things cause anybody know China men is a strong team now. But if losing to Malay 3 times in a row and record the worst history ever for Indo Thomas Cup, for the first time Indo Thomas team failed to reach at least a SF place.

I didn't realize that Chen Hong now has higher ranking than BCL, that means China has lots of options in MS depending on who is their opponent.

@eskey, the ranking for the players is not final yet. There is still 3 events before the final Thomas Uber start so players can gain points asmany as they can or the team can strategize by sending or not sending players to the events to determine who played first, second or third singles.

Btw, it doesn't mean anything if BCL is the third single for China. If Taufik play second single, BCL can play second single and let CJ or XXZ play third singles. If even Taufik play as third singles, China can still play BCL as third singles.

Hmm..I didn't expect the draw to come out so fast. I thought it will be done sometime in March? Anyway, the draw does seem to be unfavorable to Team Indonesia because they already have to face one of the seeds in the group (Korea). Luckily, Korea is probably the weakest among the top 4 seeds (the others being China, Denmark, and Malaysia). However, can Indonesia beat Korea at the present state?

I think they are certainly more manageable than Malaysia. If Taufik is in top form, he will beat Lee Hyun-Il. The doubles should also take care of the Korean youngsters. The only tricky thing is that you will never expect which doubles pair the Korean pick for the ties. They have numerous combinations to choose from Jung Jae Sung, Lee Jae Jin, Lee Yong Dae, Hwang Ji-Man, and Han Sang-Hoon. Any 4 players they choose will still be a threat and it will almost certainly include Lee Jae Jin.

I personally think Indonesia's chance is about 30-40%. With luck on their side, I think Denmark can win it.

Korea probably play Kim Dong Moon again in MD in order not to lost to Indo and at least reach SF. Remember, Ra Kyung Min already play for Korea Uber team so it make sense if KDM play for Thomas also.

malaysia also wants to avoid indoensia :)

I don't think so. Cause if Malay wanted to win this cup teyhad to started to think like a champion. You don't had to choose who you wanted to play but the other team trying all they can to avoid you.

Beside, Malay alraedy won Indo twice facing the same players. They had a high confidence, if they beat Indo in QF their confidence will double when they met Denmark in SF.

good strategy, avoid early meeting with china... we must finish as the 3rd, and we must beat germany or india and then facing denmark

ina official must be ready to bare 'the humiliation (rasa malu :) )' and bashing from 'local press' for further goal the tc final

And it will not guarantee a win even when Indo meet Denmark. Remember how we lost 2 yeras ago from Denmark practically with almost the same players.

If we deliberately lost and then lost in QF or even in SF or even in final, I believe Indo team will had some angry fans waiting in the airport welcoming them home :)

Firstly, if your ambition is to win, then you will have to beat all the other Big 5 teams that you meet. If your ambition is just to reach the final, then there are lots of hanky panky that one can play. I believe, all the Big 5 teams are out to win the Cup, and I trust they will try to win all ties. Even if Indonesia or Korea wants to get second placing, I don't think any will want the last place (like some of you suggest).

China and Denmark have the easiest tasks. They are likely to stroll to the semifinals.

Korea v Indonesia is a big match, but the result will probably be inconsequential. On the one hand, the loser will have to play an extra match before facing (probably) Malaysia and then Denmark before they can reach the final. On the other hand, the winner can have a rest day before an easy quarterfinal (probably Japan), and then face (probably) China before they can reach the final. So, loser - last 16, Malaysia, Denmark, final; winner - rest, Japan, China, final. Actually, I would choose to be the winner because it is slightly easier and the attitude of avoiding China is a defeatist attitude.

Malaysia once again has the rotten luck of being almost assured of a Big 5 encounter in the quarterfinals. However, like I've said, if you want to win the Cup, then you have to get past everything that's thrown at you. It does not matter whether you lose in the quarters or the finals. Either you win the Cup or don't win it.

I am 1000% agree with you.:)

:confused: How you are very sure that INA will win over CHN 3-2? If INA wins CHN, then I think the result should be 3-1.

Matches Prediction:
Taufik beat LD 1-0
Candra/sdigit beat Fu/Cai 2-0
Sony lose BCL/CH 2-1
Alvin/Luluk beat CHN 2nd Doubles 3-1

You said 3-2 which means you are very confident that INA 3rd singles (probably Simon Santoso) could beat CHN 3rd singles (either Bao Chun Lai or Chen Jin)? I don't think so.

For me.... CHN has many choices of MS to face INA, but INA doesn't have. And what we all espect is Taufik is the KEY of winning TC. If Taufik loses, then nothing to say, the whole team will be destroyed. But if you look on CHN team, they are not only depend on LD or any individuals. Overall, CHN team is MUCH MUCH MUCH stronger than INA .... this is the fact, no doubt~!

But again .... for me, INA is always have the great chances to bring back TC.

Agree with you, if Indonesia had to beat any team of the Big 5, they had to win at least 3-1. If the score tie to 2-2 , as we all know, Simon will practically give the last point to the opponent.

i don't understand why it will jeopardize China's chances. I thought that if new system implemented will favor China as they have deep and strong in MS department, in fact they can just go ahead 3-0 with all the MS played first.

Yep! With this format, malay and China will had a huge grin in their faces cause they had the most equal quality in their singles.

i just read one of the indo's news (jawa pos) about the draw of TC/UC and it's very funny that the indo official (Lius Pongoh) doesn't know the format of the competition from preliminaries to the Final, they only know about group draw, so he still assumes that only winner and runner up of the group will through to quarter final and the format is group A winner will face group B runner up, same thing for other groups. he also claims IBF didn't inform them about the recent draw date as he thought the draw would be held on 13th March.

So Badminton Central is much faster/more updated then PBSI officials hahaha

Now you see, how can PBSI official didn't know the format to play Thomas Cup cause this format already been used since 2 years ago?

And the official claim they are deadly serious to win Thomas Cup back.

:confused: How you are very sure that INA will win over CHN 3-2? If INA wins CHN, then I think the result should be 3-1.

Matches Prediction:
Taufik beat LD 1-0
Candra/sdigit beat Fu/Cai 2-0
Sony lose BCL/CH 2-1
Alvin/Luluk beat CHN 2nd Doubles 3-1

You said 3-2 which means you are very confident that INA 3rd singles (probably Simon Santoso) could beat CHN 3rd singles (either Bao Chun Lai or Chen Jin)? I don't think so.

For me.... CHN has many choices of MS to face INA, but INA doesn't have. And what we all espect is Taufik is the KEY of winning TC. If Taufik loses, then nothing to say, the whole team will be destroyed. But if you look on CHN team, they are not only depend on LD or any individuals. Overall, CHN team is MUCH MUCH MUCH stronger than INA .... this is the fact, no doubt~!

But again .... for me, INA is always have the great chances to bring back TC.

I agreed that Taufik is playing a key rule in againsting China, if he is managed to beat LD again then Indos might win by 3-1 or 3-2, but I am sure it won't be easy and I say both LD and TF has the same chance to win over each other.

China is likely to take the rest of the Singles with CH and BCL and Indo has just a little more edges on 1st MD over Cai/Fu. And even before they reach semi, good luck with the Korean. :p

Indos probably has the worst draw (/w Korea) as I can see amongs the top 5.

I don't think so. Cause if Malay wanted to win this cup teyhad to started to think like a champion. You don't had to choose who you wanted to play but the other team trying all they can to avoid you.

Beside, Malay alraedy won Indo twice facing the same players. They had a high confidence, if they beat Indo in QF their confidence will double when they met Denmark in SF.

As what Yap Kim Hock said. Now MAS doesn't have the chance to choose opponant, but the opponant can choose to face MAS. MAS must be the winner of the group to avoid facing China.

:D So just see either KOR or INA are good in acting lose to each other. Probably INA I think, coz INA might not let Taufik or Candra/Sigit play when meet with KOR.
Don't remember, INA is well-informed of MAS players in team event if compare with CHN team.

As what Yap Kim Hock said. Now MAS doesn't have the chance to choose opponant, but the opponant can choose to face MAS. MAS must be the winner of the group to avoid facing China.

:D So just see either KOR or INA are good in acting lose to each other. Probably INA I think, coz INA might not let Taufik or Candra/Sigit play when meet with KOR.
Don't remember, INA is well-informed of MAS players in team event if compare with CHN team.
Actually, although Indonesia is now considered "underdog", deep inside, China, Malaysia and Denmark are hoping that they do not meet Indonesia in SM.

China prefers to meet Korea
Malaysia prefers to meet Korea
Denmark too

Indonesia actually has nothing to lose. But, it is not easy either for Indonesia who Indonesian wants to face in the SM.

latest news i read, Sutiyoso (PBSI Chief) phoned Agum Gumelar personally (Taufik's in law) to ask for his help to tell Taufik to have full concentration on the mission to win TC, in other words, he needs to tell Taufik, "don't play anymore, please be serious" hahahahaha, heard Rudy Hartono and Lius also asked same thing to Agum. I don't know whether it helps or not to motivate Taufik.

Actually, although Indonesia is now considered "underdog", deep inside, China, Malaysia and Denmark are hoping that they do not meet Indonesia in SM.

China prefers to meet Korea
Malaysia prefers to meet Korea
Denmark too

Indonesia actually has nothing to lose. But, it is not easy either for Indonesia who Indonesian wants to face in the SM.

You are fantastic! You seem to know what the other countries' are thinking and what are their fears.

Have you asked yourself which countries Indonesia fears most? Will they be the same countries that you mentioned - China, Malaysia and Denmark?

If recent results are anything to go by, Indonesia is at its weakest and any early meeting against these three top teams will be more than a handful. Any other team meeting these three giants early will be disappointed as well.

But they still have to fight on irrespective as they jolly well know what to expect when they enter the final round! :D

You are fantastic! You seem to know what the other countries' are thinking and what are their fears.

Have you asked yourself which countries Indonesia fears most? Will they be the same countries that you mentioned - China, Malaysia and Denmark?

If recent results are anything to go by, Indonesia is at its weakest and any early meeting against these three top teams will be more than a handful. Any other team meeting these three giants early will be disappointed as well.

But they still have to fight on irrespective as they jolly well know what to expect when they enter the final round! :D

As I stated before that the most dangerous "team" for Indonesia at the moment is Malaysia.

1. Malaysia ===> Real Threat
2. China =====> Serious Threat
3. Denmark===> Threat
4. Korea ====> Threat

I think, for this time, Indonesia get a very tough draw....winning the group means meet China in SF...number 2 in group means facing MAlaysia...number 3 group (which it is impossible unless Indonesia lost purposely to New Zealand which is very funny and irrational) will face Denmark....so since number 1 or 2 in group will face the tough match agin in the next round...maybe better to win the group, get 1 day rest, go to QF and I think Indo will win here, and the SF meet China....

If they choose to meet Malaysia, I am not quite sure they can reach SF. Malaysia is hard to be defeated.

:)

As I have mentioned earlier, to bring back TC, INA only depend on taufik. If Taufik got sick or not perform well, then INA team will be destroyed.
But CHN, MAS or DEN they still can win if their 1st Single is down.

So now, INA team should pray every day and hope that Taufik will perform well and nothing happen to him.

Allah bless him ~

1st Singles

2nd Singles
3rd Singles
1st Doubles
2nd Doubles

------------------------------------------------------------------------

2006-2-28 体坛周报 中羽网
今年即将在日本举行的2006年汤尤杯在赛制上做出了首先进行三场单打，随后进行两场双打，从预选赛到决赛 阶段都首次试行21分每球得分制的新规定。“这种的赛制规定，能否取胜的关键还是要看自己。21分每球得分 制的规定，增加了比赛偶然性，谁能尽快的掌握住其中的规律，谁就掌握了比赛的主动权。”

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seem like it is confirmed that T/UC will play as mentioned above. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Singles then only 1st & 2nd Doubles.
emmm..... I don;t like this arrangement. Why IBF always have some changing which I don't like such as the 21 scoring system ...

------------------------------------------------------------------------

2006-2-28 体坛周报 中羽网
今年即将在日本举行的2006年汤尤杯在赛制上做出了首先进行三场单打，随后进行两场双打，从预选赛到决赛 阶 段都首次试行21分每球得分制的新规定。“这种的赛制规定，能否取胜的关键还是要看自己。21分每球得分制 的规定，增加了比赛偶然性，谁能尽快的掌握住其 中的规律，谁就掌握了比赛的主动权。”

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

seem like it is confirmed that T/UC will play as mentioned above. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Singles then only 1st & 2nd Doubles.
emmm..... I don;t like this arrangement. Why IBF always have some changing which I don't like such as the 21 scoring system ...

Yes, I think this match order is crap too!! :(
It doesn't balance singles and doubles, and we many doubles matches won't even be played, as the tie will already be over after the singles.

Yet another crap "Punch Gunalan" idea??? :confused:

The format will favour the team who had strong single players and team like Indonesia will be at a disadvantage, as the game might be over before their top pairs can start action

china will own this whole tournament.looks indonesia and malaysia cannot play doubles to their advantage.so too denmark

wasn't this arrangement played in TC for a long..long time before ?
i remember as indons bt. china 3-2 in the 80's.
LSK lost to china player
Hastomo arbi bt. Han jian
icuk Sugiarto lost china player
and then when everybody thought that indo will lose...
christan - hadibowo and LSK-Kartono won their game..fantastically....


------------------------------------------------------------------------

2006-2-28 体坛周报 中羽网
今年即将在日本举行的2006年汤尤杯在赛制上做出了首先进行三场单打，随后进行两场双打，从预选赛到决赛 阶 段都首次试行21分每球得分制的新规定。“这种的赛制规定，能否取胜的关键还是要看自己。21分每球得分制 的规定，增加了比赛偶然性，谁能尽快的掌握住其 中的规律，谁就掌握了比赛的主动权。”

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

seem like it is confirmed that T/UC will play as mentioned above. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Singles then only 1st & 2nd Doubles.
emmm..... I don;t like this arrangement. Why IBF always have some changing which I don't like such as the 21 scoring system ...

wasn't this arrangement played in TC for a long..long time before ?
i remember as indons bt. china 3-2 in the 80's.
LSK lost to china player
Hastomo arbi bt. Han jian
icuk Sugiarto lost china player
and then when everybody thought that indo will lose...
christan - hadibowo and LSK-Kartono won their game..fantastically....

Ya, this format will be used when the player play in single & doubles. We always see this format especially in group-match.
As you mentioned above, LSK did play in singles and doubles.

But from now on, no matter the player play only in single or both, the new format will be using.

The format will favour the team who had strong single players and team like Indonesia will be at a disadvantage, as the game might be over before their top pairs can start actionThe nice thing is that Indonesia won't have any suspense in either case. It was the same in the Sudirman Cup. When Nova/Lilyana lost, they didn't have a chance. If Taufik loses, you know it will be 3-0 for China. If Taufik wins, Candra/Sigit and the other pair have two non-matches to watch while they think about what they have to do in the doubles but the numbers won't be worse than 2-1 and that isn't too demoralizing. Similar for Korea vs. China since Korea's success will depend on a win from either Lee or Shon and if they both lose, then you know the result already because they have no one who can take Bao.

The team it would really hurt, ironically, would be Malaysia, since that is the only team with a third singles player who is capable of beating Bao Chunlai. So if Lee and Hafiz both lose, Malaysia will still have a chance because beating Bao isn't impossible for Wong CH but they will be facing a 2-0 deficit.

The nice thing is that Indonesia won't have any suspense in either case. It was the same in the Sudirman Cup. When Nova/Lilyana lost, they didn't have a chance. If Taufik loses, you know it will be 3-0 for China. If Taufik wins, Candra/Sigit and the other pair have two non-matches to watch while they think about what they have to do in the doubles but the numbers won't be worse than 2-1 and that isn't too demoralizing. Similar for Korea vs. China since Korea's success will depend on a win from either Lee or Shon and if they both lose, then you know the result already because they have no one who can take Bao.

The team it would really hurt, ironically, would be Malaysia, since that is the only team with a third singles player who is capable of beating Bao Chunlai. So if Lee and Hafiz both lose, Malaysia will still have a chance because beating Bao isn't impossible for Wong CH but they will be facing a 2-0 deficit.

I have no objection to this format...any format will do ! Indonesian is more than ready...

See my prediction:

INA vs China
T vs any player ==> 1-0
S vs any player ==> 1-1
Sim vs any player ==> 1-2
C/S vs C/F ====> 2-2
L/A vs any pairs ==> 3-2

INA vs Mas

T vs LCW ==> 1-0
S vs HH ==> 1-1
Sim vs WCH ==> 1-2
C/S vs any pair ==> 2-2
L/A vs any pair ==> 3-2

INA vs Den

T vs PG ==> 1-0
S vs KJ ==> 1-1
Sim vs any play => 2-1
C/s vs J/L ===> 3-1

I think that's pretty generous speculation...

I have no objection to this format...any format will do ! Indonesian is more than ready...

See my prediction:

INA vs China
T vs any player ==> 1-0
S vs any player ==> 1-1
Sim vs any player ==> 1-2
C/S vs C/F ====> 2-2
L/A vs any pairs ==> 3-2

INA vs Mas

T vs LCW ==> 1-0
S vs HH ==> 1-1
Sim vs WCH ==> 1-2
C/S vs any pair ==> 2-2
L/A vs any pair ==> 3-2

INA vs Den

T vs PG ==> 1-0
S vs KJ ==> 1-1
Sim vs any play => 2-1
C/s vs J/L ===> 3-1

I have no objection to this format...any format will do ! Indonesian is more than ready...

See my prediction:

INA vs China
T vs any player ==> 1-0
S vs any player ==> 1-1
Sim vs any player ==> 1-2
C/S vs C/F ====> 2-2
L/A vs any pairs ==> 3-2

INA vs Mas

T vs LCW ==> 1-0
S vs HH ==> 1-1
Sim vs WCH ==> 1-2
C/S vs any pair ==> 2-2
L/A vs any pair ==> 3-2

INA vs Den

T vs PG ==> 1-0
S vs KJ ==> 1-1
Sim vs any play => 2-1
C/s vs J/L ===> 3-1



:cool: Seem like Taufik is undefeated. Also Candra/Sigit.

wasn't this arrangement played in TC for a long..long time before ?
i remember as indons bt. china 3-2 in the 80's.
LSK lost to china player
Hastomo arbi bt. Han jian
icuk Sugiarto lost china player
and then when everybody thought that indo will lose...
christan - hadibowo and LSK-Kartono won their game..fantastically....

Liem Swie King lost to Luan Jin
Hastomo Arbi bt Han Jian
Icuk Sugiarto lost to Yang Yang

I have no objection to this format...any format will do ! Indonesian is more than ready...

See my prediction:

INA vs Mas

T vs LCW ==> 1-0
S vs HH ==> 1-1
Sim vs WCH ==> 1-2
C/S vs any pair ==> 2-2
L/A vs any pair ==> 3-2



What If Malaysia line up as follows :

Taufik vs Lee Chong Wei ( recent result at Jaipur, LCW bt Taufik 2-0 )
Sony vs Hafiz ( recent result at Jaipur, Hafiz bt Sony 2-0 )
Simon vs Wong CH (recent result Manila, Wong CH bt Simon 2-0 )
Candra/Sigit vs CTF/LWW ( result All England 06, Mas won 2-1 )
Luluk/Alvin vs Gan TC/ Abdul Latif Zakri ( AE06. Mas won 15-13,15-17,15-3)
:D
The recent result does not favor Indonesia.:D

According to recent results, Indonesia lost to Malaysia. On the paper, we can still say that,I think. BUt actually, I guess Indonesian spirit will be boosted if they meet Malaysia. Classic match:D ....

What If Malaysia line up as follows :

Taufik vs Lee Chong Wei ( recent result at Jaipur, LCW bt Taufik 2-0 )
Sony vs Hafiz ( recent result at Jaipur, Hafiz bt Sony 2-0 )
Simon vs Wong CH (recent result Manila, Wong CH bt Simon 2-0 )
Candra/Sigit vs CTF/LWW ( result All England 06, Mas won 2-1 )
Luluk/Alvin vs Gan TC/ Abdul Latif Zakri ( AE06. Mas won 15-13,15-17,15-3)
:D
The recent result does not favor Indonesia.:D

Indonesia is definitely an underdog against CHN, MAS and DEN. 3rd single - Simon can't be depend on. 2nd single - Sony does not seem like performed well in team event. 2 strong doubles, but to take 2-0 against the giant 3, some extra efforts needed!!! So, I would rank Indonesia in the 4th place in term of winner favorite; after CHN, MAS and DEN.

CHN vs MAS:

10% go 5-0 or 0-5
30% go 4-1 or 1-4
60% go 3-2 or 2-3 eitherway

Indonesia is definitely an underdog against CHN, MAS and DEN. 3rd single - Simon can't be depend on. 2nd single - Sony does not seem like performed well in team event. 2 strong doubles, but to take 2-0 against the giant 3, some extra efforts needed!!! So, I would rank Indonesia in the 4th place in term of winner favorite; after CHN, MAS and DEN.

CHN vs MAS:

10% go 5-0 or 0-5
30% go 4-1 or 1-4
60% go 3-2 or 2-3 eitherway

Agree with you. Although it pain me to say it, if nothing extra ordinary happen with Indo Thomas team (like suddenly Simon & Sonny started to believe at themselves that they can win when they meet China, Denmark or Malay team) my final prediction is: (despite whatever Indo strategy is)

China VS Malaysia

Info:

Indo and Malay Thomas team agree to have a friendly match in Indonesia before the final Thomas match in Japan begin.

Malaysia cleverly didnot send LCW in their team.

If in this try out Indo team win against Malay , the official will probably think to lost to Korea at the preliminary group.

But if without LCW, Indo team lost to Malay, they will surely will fight 100% to win against Korea in the group.

judging by the line up, indonesia might not win this year. but for Indonesia fans, don't give up your hope and support. i'm positive that indonesi will once again dominate in a few years. i can see badminton back into trend nowadays. i see many badminton clubs are gaining so many new recruits now(at least in my town and around jawa timur). i see many good talents too. maybe we''ll have three taufik in a few years then we won't have to worry about losing first ms:p .

Agree with you. Although it pain me to say it, if nothing extra ordinary happen with Indo Thomas team (like suddenly Simon & Sonny started to believe at themselves that they can win when they meet China, Denmark or Malay team) my final prediction is: (despite whatever Indo strategy is)

China VS Malaysia

Indo can still make it, they got 4 matches to win 3 pts (2 singles, 2 doubles) except 3rd singles. Taufik must regain concentration and Sony must believe in his potential ...

Malaysia also rode on the same formula to win 1992 Thomas Cup. At that time our 3rd singles cannot match other team's 3rd singles. A lot of people said Malaysia cannot win with banking on 4 matches. Also, at that time MAS doubles were in top form (except when playing Korea ...)

Indo can still make it, they got 4 matches to win 3 pts (2 singles, 2 doubles) except 3rd singles. Taufik must regain concentration and Sony must believe in his potential ...

Malaysia also rode on the same formula to win 1992 Thomas Cup. At that time our 3rd singles cannot match other team's 3rd singles. A lot of people said Malaysia cannot win with banking on 4 matches. Also, at that time MAS doubles were in top form (except when playing Korea ...)

I feel Simon Santoso can never be underestimated. However, Indonesia does not have the luxury of choice in singles. It has to be Taufik, Sony and Simon. Malaysia and especially China have depth beyond the third singles (Chen Jin, Xia XZ, Kuan Beng Hong).

But once again, I feel Simon cannot be underestimated.

I feel Simon Santoso can never be underestimated. However, Indonesia does not have the luxury of choice in singles. It has to be Taufik, Sony and Simon. Malaysia and especially China have depth beyond the third singles (Chen Jin, Xia XZ, Kuan Beng Hong).

But once again, I feel Simon cannot be underestimated.

I too agree that Simon cannot be discounted entirely! He may turn out to be Indonesia's saviour. It is such a shame that many of our Indonesian BF'ers have no confidence in him. Remember Simon has been exposed to many more internationals than before and he is learning from such experiences. He doesn't seem to be diffident himself, so Indonesian supporters must continue to cheer him if they want Simon to reward them! :D

Info:

Indo and Malay Thomas team agree to have a friendly match in Indonesia before the final Thomas match in Japan begin.

Malaysia cleverly didnot send LCW in their team.

If in this try out Indo team win against Malay , the official will probably think to lost to Korea at the preliminary group.

But if without LCW, Indo team lost to Malay, they will surely will fight 100% to win against Korea in the group.

Sorry to say that even without LCW, Malaysia still have the depth to beat Indonesia now. But Indonesia can't even afford to left out Taufik. This is the reality now.

Our Yeoh Kay Bin also have the quality to beat Simon ... regret to say that.

I too agree that Simon cannot be discounted entirely! He may turn out to be Indonesia's saviour. It is such a shame that many of our Indonesian BF'ers have no confidence in him. Remember Simon has been exposed to many more internationals than before and he is learning from such experiences. He doesn't seem to be diffident himself, so Indonesian supporters must continue to cheer him if they want Simon to reward them! :D

maybe if the 3 MS play first, simon wiill perform better because the pressure not as much as being played as the last match when the score is 2-2 :D

unfortunetly, indonesia isn't in their best form this recent year. even we managed to scoped 2 tittle from WC, but we are not strong enough in team event.

honestly i think malaysia has better chance this year. undoubtly they have more choices then we have. in singlesor doubles. well nothing to be ashamed of. we have to admit the reallity.

we have taufik hidayat "the living legend". but under the new sytem i dont he will be that incredable anymore. if you see his game, he always make a lots of mistakes. but he is good on tactics. so with this new sytem which ask player to be perfect, and concentrate from the begining of the game wont be easy for taufik which always late on fire.

cadra/sigit as top pair is getting older. they have really good deffense, but if they won to win againt other top pairs they have to increase their ability on attack, which will be difficult for them due to their age problem. speed will also make them weaker.

but in MD we also managed to put at least 2 pairs on top 10 so i suppossed, we will managed that in 1 year.

Yes... Candre/sigit their speed and attack not as good as previously. but they are still in the top now, because nowadays lack of good MD. Danish pairs also getting old. The Korean & Malaysia MD youngsters not good enough either at the moment. As China.... I have no comment, because they are not producing great MD.
Yesterday replay back the match between Yap/Cheah vs Ricky/Rexy .... wooow.... I cann see Ricky/Rexy really had the greatest speed, power, attack & defend. I believe if they still can perform like that time, no one can against them now.

maybe if the 3 MS play first, simon wiill perform better because the pressure not as much as being played as the last match when the score is 2-2 :D

Maybe the 3 of you are right, but I fail to see how Simon will pick up form in 2 months. I mean in this competition, the best tactical lineup is 1st singles for the best player (no choice), and 3rd singles for the most experienced (one who can rescue/win the tie).

Notice previous Thomas Cup campaign's 3rd singles players, Joko Suprianto, Hendrawan, Xia Xuanze, Chen Hong, Icuk Sugiarto, Peter Rasmussen. 5 of them were world champions, and they were able to soak the pressure.

Compare that against Simon, who is still up and coming. Of course we can understand the Indon's surprising lack of depth, normally a Malaysian problem ...

Maybe the 3 of you are right, but I fail to see how Simon will pick up form in 2 months. I mean in this competition, the best tactical lineup is 1st singles for the best player (no choice), and 3rd singles for the most experienced (one who can rescue/win the tie).

Notice previous Thomas Cup campaign's 3rd singles players, Joko Suprianto, Hendrawan, Xia Xuanze, Chen Hong, Icuk Sugiarto, Peter Rasmussen. 5 of them were world champions, and they were able to soak the pressure.

Compare that against Simon, who is still up and coming. Of course we can understand the Indon's surprising lack of depth, normally a Malaysian problem ...

Yang Yang ( World champion 87 & 89 ) play as third singles in 1984 TC.
Zhao Jian Hua ( world champion 91 ) 3rd single in 1988 & 1990 TC.

Maybe the 3 of you are right, but I fail to see how Simon will pick up form in 2 months. I mean in this competition, the best tactical lineup is 1st singles for the best player (no choice), and 3rd singles for the most experienced (one who can rescue/win the tie).

Notice previous Thomas Cup campaign's 3rd singles players, Joko Suprianto, Hendrawan, Xia Xuanze, Chen Hong, Icuk Sugiarto, Peter Rasmussen. 5 of them were world champions, and they were able to soak the pressure.

Compare that against Simon, who is still up and coming. Of course we can understand the Indon's surprising lack of depth, normally a Malaysian problem ...

Agree with you.

Sadly singles problem strated 2 years ago where Indo Thomas team that time also only depend on Taufik, Sonny and Simon as the singles players. The fourth singles that time, Wempie was not very good.

That time PBSI promsed to improved the singles so we can grab the Thomas Cup back.

But whan happen?

Of course another sweet lies from the officials. We didn't produce any new fourth singles and Wempie retired from PBSI cause they don't send him to any events anymore. Not just that, PBSI only send Taufik to all the prestigious and big event in this 2 years where as Sonny and Simon only to be send playing fewer and smaller events.

Is this the good strategy to have the Cup back?

Believe me when I said, if we failed to hold the cup back, the same officials will give Indonesian badminton fans another sweet lies. :mad:

Sorry to say that even without LCW, Malaysia still have the depth to beat Indonesia now. But Indonesia can't even afford to left out Taufik. This is the reality now.

Our Yeoh Kay Bin also have the quality to beat Simon ... regret to say that.

A friendly match cannot be judged as a prediction.

That's only a warming-up practice. The mood is 100% different from the real " battle".

Results of the friendly match will not affect the TC in Japan.

Technically, top players are equal. But, the ability to come out of the pressure in "the Real SHowdown" will play a role.

LCW knows exactly that his victories over Taufik (Malaysan Open 2005 and recent TC QUalifying Round) were not due to his superior performance over Taufik. Taufik LET LCW win purposefully. LCW knows this and he has never defeated Taufik when Taufik says no especially in important matches.

A friendly match cannot be judged as a prediction.

That's only a warming-up practice. The mood is 100% different from the real " battle".

Results of the friendly match will not affect the TC in Japan.

Technically, top players are equal. But, the ability to come out of the pressure in "the Real SHowdown" will play a role.

LCW knows exactly that his victories over Taufik (Malaysan Open 2005 and recent TC QUalifying Round) were not due to his superior performance over Taufik. Taufik LET LCW win purposefully. LCW knows this and he has never defeated Taufik when Taufik says no especially in important matches.

Indra, for being such a fantastic and loyal fan of Taufik, you deserve a medal from him. Have you taken a photo with Taufik yet and got his autograph? I took one with him, but it didn't come out nice, unfortunately. There wasn't enough light. :D

Because you are not a die-hard fan :D so is the photo.

Indra, for being such a fantastic and loyal fan of Taufik, you deserve a medal from him. Have you taken a photo with Taufik yet and got his autograph? I took one with him, but it didn't come out nice, unfortunately. There wasn't enough light. :D

Because you are not a die-hard fan :D so is the photo.

You're probably right! I'm a fan to all the world's greatest players and there are quite a number now, including Taufik. So very difficult to be a die-hard fan to anyone special. ;) :cool: :)

Actually it was during the SEA Games in Manila. I was watching him and Simon sparring at very close quarters during training. After training, when he was all dressed up and ready to go, I took a pic with him outside the training centre when it was quite dark. :crying:

Indra, for being such a fantastic and loyal fan of Taufik, you deserve a medal from him. Have you taken a photo with Taufik yet and got his autograph? I took one with him, but it didn't come out nice, unfortunately. There wasn't enough light. :D

No...:crying: . Sad....Poor...

Actually, my current favorite players are Taufik and Lin Dan...I love the way they play the game 100%.

You're probably right! I'm a fan to all the world's greatest players and there are quite a number now, including Taufik. So very difficult to be a die-hard fan to anyone special. ;) :cool: :)

Actually it was during the SEA Games in Manila. I was watching him and Simon sparring at very close quarters during training. After training, when he was all dressed up and ready to go, I took a pic with him outside the training centre when it was quite dark. :crying:
can you share the photo ?:D

Korea probably play Kim Dong Moon again in MD in order not to lost to Indo and at least reach SF. Remember, Ra Kyung Min already play for Korea Uber team so it make sense if KDM play for Thomas also.Big difference. Kim Dong-moon is about 4000 miles from any potential doubles partners and isn't training. He is studying English in Vancouver. Ra is still in Korea helping coach the national team has been training with her Noonnoppi team constantly and even playing in tournaments both at home and abroad ever since her "retirement". She even flew over and won the Canadian Open in November. Don't hold your breath about Kim.

On the other hand, the scratch pair of Lee Jae-jin and Han Sang-hoon beat the top Malaysian pair of Chan/Koo in the Asian qualifiers so Korea may have some surprises in store.

A friendly match cannot be judged as a prediction.

That's only a warming-up practice. The mood is 100% different from the real " battle".

Results of the friendly match will not affect the TC in Japan.

Technically, top players are equal. But, the ability to come out of the pressure in "the Real SHowdown" will play a role.

LCW knows exactly that his victories over Taufik (Malaysan Open 2005 and recent TC QUalifying Round) were not due to his superior performance over Taufik. Taufik LET LCW win purposefully. LCW knows this and he has never defeated Taufik when Taufik says no especially in important matches.

Lost is a lost. comments after lost is like medicine after death. Taufik will not do it on purpose that leads Indon Team to no choice now but to meet either Mas or Chn. only idot will do that without even knowing what the outcome of the draw will be.

no heart feeling indra. it was just my 2cents.

Lost is a lost. comments after lost is like medicine after death. Taufik will not do it on purpose that leads Indon Team to no choice now but to meet either Mas or Chn. only idot will do that without even knowing what the outcome of the draw will be.

no heart feeling indra. it was just my 2cents.


Ya .... agreed. Each time Taufik lost, the indon ppl will say Taufik lost for purposely, or Taufik not interested in the title or bad mood/form of Taufik .... lot of reasons.
With such reasons, I could say LD, LCW or PG are also undefeated. Sometimes they lose just for purposely like Taufik :D

For Indon ppl, Taufik just like the GOD of badminton, he will never lose to anyone. "Taufik telah diagong-agongkan"

I totally agreed that Taufik is great player, but he is also an unconsistence player. Taufik is not undefeated.... no one either~!

Ya .... agreed. Each time Taufik lost, the indon ppl will say Taufik lost for purposely, or Taufik not interested in the title or bad mood/form of Taufik .... lot of reasons.
With such reasons, I could say LD, LCW or PG are also undefeated. Sometimes they lose just for purposely like Taufik :D

For Indon ppl, Taufik just like the GOD of badminton, he will never lose to anyone. "Taufik telah diagong-agongkan"

I totally agreed that Taufik is great player, but he is also an unconsistence player. Taufik is not undefeated.... no one either~!

better not to say 'indon ppl'. NOT all indon ppl will do that, maybe only some of 'die-hard' fans will do that, so better not to generalize that matter.

win is win, lost is lost, when you are lost, it's NOT your opponent problem, but IT IS YOUR PROBLEM for whatever reasons, you have to take care of yourself.

Info:

Indo and Malay Thomas team agree to have a friendly match in Indonesia before the final Thomas match in Japan begin.

Malaysia cleverly didnot send LCW in their team.

If in this try out Indo team win against Malay , the official will probably think to lost to Korea at the preliminary group.

But if without LCW, Indo team lost to Malay, they will surely will fight 100% to win against Korea in the group.

from news, PBSI would reconsider again having friendly match with MAS because officially MAS would send only their second team. almost 90% of their main squad are not the list sent to PBSI. Rudi Hartono said, it maybe cancelled if it's not beneficial to the team.

In the official letter from MAS to PBSI, those who will play in Batam are: Kuan Beng Hong (peringkat 11), Lee Tsuen Seng (41), and Mohd Roslin Hashim (34) for MS, Gan Teik Chai/Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (12), Lin Woon Fui/Mohd Fairuzizzuan Tazari (10), and Chew Choon Eng for MD.

from news, PBSI would reconsider again having friendly match with MAS because officially MAS would send only their second team. almost 90% of their main squad are not the list sent to PBSI. Rudi Hartono said, it maybe cancelled if it's not beneficial to the team.

In the official letter from MAS to PBSI, those who will play in Batam are: Kuan Beng Hong (peringkat 11), Lee Tsuen Seng (41), and Mohd Roslin Hashim (34) for MS, Gan Teik Chai/Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (12), Lin Woon Fui/Mohd Fairuzizzuan Tazari (10), and Chew Choon Eng for MD.


I think Yap Kim Hock might let the MAS playes have well rest after the commonwealth games and ABC. And prepare well for the TC later. That's why MAS might not send their 1st team to the Friedly match with INA.

Furthermore, I think INA will beat MAS in Japan if they meet up.
INA team always have the high spirit on TC. It's hard to beat them in TU unless something goes wrong.

can you share the photo ?:D

I wish I could, but it must have been so badly taken that it was unwittingly deleted! :crying:

In compensation, I hope you like the ones that I took with Sony and Natsir during their training at the Valenzia Badminton Club, Manila and other pics, including the Indonesian Team's action at the Manila SEA Games. :D

I hope Indra likes the pics too, also meant specially for him for being such a strong Indonesian team supporter! :)

I wish I could, but it must have been so badly taken that it was unwittingly deleted! :crying:

In compensation, I hope you like the ones that I took with Sony and Natsir during their training at the Valenzia Badminton Club, Manila and other pics, including the Indonesian Team's action at the Manila SEA Games. :D

I hope Indra likes the pics too, also meant specially for him for being such a strong Indonesian team supporter! :)

OMG! I love your pics!! big big THANK YOU !:) :) :)

OMG! I love your pics!! big big THANK YOU !:) :) :)

I so glad you like them.

BTW, are you an Indonesian now residing in China? Where, Shanghai, Beijing...?

Your name 'kemana' seems to ask 'where are you going? But my Malay is pretty elementary, I'm afraid. :D

I so glad you like them.

BTW, are you an Indonesian now residing in China? Where, Shanghai, Beijing...?

Your name 'kemana' seems to ask 'where are you going? But my Malay is pretty elementary, I'm afraid. :D
heihei, i am chinese,hehehe,i'm in Beijing:) and you are right about the meaning of my name,hehehe

I so glad you like them.

BTW, are you an Indonesian now residing in China? Where, Shanghai, Beijing...?

Your name 'kemana' seems to ask 'where are you going? But my Malay is pretty elementary, I'm afraid. :D
btw, people are allowed to enter the stadium and watch the players training? that's great!

I wish I could, but it must have been so badly taken that it was unwittingly deleted! :crying:

In compensation, I hope you like the ones that I took with Sony and Natsir during their training at the Valenzia Badminton Club, Manila and other pics, including the Indonesian Team's action at the Manila SEA Games. :D

I hope Indra likes the pics too, also meant specially for him for being such a strong Indonesian team supporter! :)
Loh, nice pics you have there!..:) :cool: ..reminded me of when the INA team was here last year at the World Championships, except this one seems to have more players participating...also, i guess, we could enter the arena/practice facility where they practiced...

hmm, on that note, perhaps the photos should be posted in the "Pictures with Players" thread or "SEA Games Manila" thread??..more related/appropriate..?!?!.. :rolleyes:

heihei, i am chinese,hehehe,i'm in Beijing:) and you are right about the meaning of my name,hehehe

Interesting! But how come your nickname is Indonesian? Do you study Indonesian or some of your relatives are Indonesian?

Actually I visited Beijing with my choir group last September and was simply astonished by its magnificent transformation. I last visited more than 20 years ago! ;)

Here are some pictorial memories of my Beijing visit:

Loh, nice pics you have there!..:) :cool: ..reminded me of when the INA team was here last year at the World Championships, except this one seems to have more players participating...also, i guess, we could enter the arena/practice facility where they practiced...

hmm, on that note, perhaps the photos should be posted in the "Pictures with Players" thread or "SEA Games Manila" thread??..more related/appropriate..?!?!.. :rolleyes:

Apparently Errol Chan (shown wearing light blue T shirt), the new head coach of the Philippines team, is a (part ?) owner and sort of CEO of the Valenzia Badminton Club and he was therefore more than happy to open the facility to the public, who are mainly club members anyway. Errol is also involved in the inaugural Philippines Open, now postponed to May.

I've actually posted quite a number of pics on the SEA Games and these are additional ones for Indonesian Team supporters especially, as Indra and others lamented the visible slide in the performance of Indonesian players and thought they may not be able to deliver at the forthcoming Thomas Cup finals in Japan. Hopefully these pics can cheer them up a bit. ;)

Wonderful pictures,Loh.Thanks a million for sharing.You are truly a man of many talents.It is singing now after drawing and painting.What's next,man?

Wonderful pictures,Loh.Thanks a million for sharing.You are truly a man of many talents.It is singing now after drawing and painting.What's next,man?

Hi Kokcheng, maybe you and I will meet again at the Beijing Olympics 2008? I've not forgotten your plan. Then maybe we'll be able to meet up with 'siapa'? - perhaps kemana et all!

Well actually I've been a member of my alma mater's choir for many years now and Beijing was our first overseas tour to interact with our friends there. This year there are plans to sing in HK, probably in September. We are now rehearsing Rodgers & Hammerstein's Broadway musicals and later some Opera Chorus. In any case, Australia will be presenting thier "West Side Story" Broadway troupe at our 'durian' Esplanade this April. Hope to be able to watch them. :D

Hi Kokcheng, maybe you and I will meet again at the Beijing Olympics 2008? I've not forgotten your plan. Then maybe we'll be able to meet up with 'siapa'? - perhaps kemana et all!

Well actually I've been a member of my alma mater's choir for many years now and Beijing was our first overseas tour to interact with our friends there. This year there are plans to sing in HK, probably in September. We are now rehearsing Rodgers & Hammerstein's Broadway musicals and later some Opera Chorus. In any case, Australia will be presenting thier "West Side Story" Broadway troupe at our 'durian' Esplanade this April. Hope to be able to watch them. :D
haha, i think a lot of people of BC can meet in Beijing 2008, and i surely will be here!~:)
btw, Loh , your messagebox is full, i can't send you message:D

haha, i think a lot of people of BC can meet in Beijing 2008, and i surely will be here!~:)
btw, Loh , your messagebox is full, i can't send you message:D

Yah, many will be there in 2008, especially those from nearby Asia. Do you have any plans for us? :D

Thanks for the reminder. I've cleared some of my PM stuff. :o ;)

I wish I could, but it must have been so badly taken that it was unwittingly deleted! :crying:

In compensation, I hope you like the ones that I took with Sony and Natsir during their training at the Valenzia Badminton Club, Manila and other pics, including the Indonesian Team's action at the Manila SEA Games. :D

I hope Indra likes the pics too, also meant specially for him for being such a strong Indonesian team supporter! :)

Very nice pictures, Loh!!!!! Send more....