u can post the whole artiicles about TC/UC here..;):)
if u are posting other languages than english, then u shud do some translation..:p:)

Rexy: No advantage for Indonesia despite new line-up

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: Indonesia have thrown up two surprises – excluding second-ranked pair of Alven Yulianto-Luluk Hadiyanto and naming the scratch pair of Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto – for the Thomas Cup Finals.
The decision has elicited mixed response from Malaysia’s national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky.
While surprised by Indonesia’s decision to drop Alven-Luluk, he appeared cool over the inclusion of Candra-Nova, who reached the final of last week’s Asian Badminton Championships (ABC) in Johor Baru.
Candra-Nova will join reigning world champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan and youngsters Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan for the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
Said Rexy: “I am surprised with the decision to drop Alven-Luluk although I think Indonesia made a wise decision. They have taken into consideration the results from last week’s ABC, which saw Candra-Nova beating Alven-Luluk.
“I am not worried about the inclusion of Candra-Nova. Our Malaysian pairs did not get a chance to play against Candra-Nova. I would have been worried if they had beaten our pair.”
Despite the surprise line-up, Rexy said he did not think that Indonesia would hold an advantage.
“Indonesia’s only advantage now is being the host of the Finals. Most of the players have not had a chance of playing against Candra-Nova while their youngsters (Joko-Hendra) will be more than motivated to prove themselves but there is no guarantee that these players will win,” Rexy said.
“All our three pairs can give their opponents a good fight. It is still open.”
Despite a change in the ranking of players, Rexy said that Malaysia could catch many by surprise by switching around their doubles line-ups during the Finals.
Malaysia’s top three men’s doubles pairs are world No. 5 Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong (world No. 6) and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (No. 11).
“These pairs have beaten each other. They have beaten other top pairs too. I can field any of these pairs and still hope for a good outcome. It does not put pressure on one particular pair,” said Rexy.
“This reminds me of my time with the Indonesian Thomas Cup squad in 2000 (in Malaysia). All our three men’s pairs were strong. We could depend on one another. We shared the burden. This will make the difference for our Malaysian team this year.”
Malaysia’s three top singles players for the Finals are Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann and Mohd Hafiz Hashim.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will name the fourth singles during their coaching and training committee meeting today. Three players – Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, Tan Chun Seang and KLRC Bhd’s Lee Tsuen Seng – are in the running for the final spot.
(Only players ranked within the top 20)
l China
Singles: Lin Dan (1st), Bao Chunlai (3rd), Chen Jin (4th), Chen Yu (12th).
Doubles: Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng (2nd), Guo Zhengdong-Xie Zhongbo (9th).
l Indonesia
Singles: Sony Dwi Kuncoro (6th), Taufik Hidayat (7th), Simon Santoso (15th).
Doubles: Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan (1st), Alven Yulianto-Luluk Hadiyanto (7th), Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan (17th).
l Denmark
Singles: Kenneth Jonassen (5th), Peter Gade-Christensen (8th), Joachim Persson (18th).
Doubles: Lars Paaske-Jonas Rasmussen (8th), Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen (12th), Mathias Boe-Carsten Morgensen (15th).
l South Korea
Singles: Park Sung-hwan (10th), Lee Hyun-il (11th).
Doubles: Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae (3rd), Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-man (10th).
l Malaysia
Singles: Lee Chong Wei (2nd), Wong Choong Hann (14th), Mohd Hafiz Hashim (22nd).
Doubles: Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah (4), Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong (5), Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif (13).
(Note: Indonesia have dropped their second- ranked pair Alven-Luluk and named scratch pair Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto).

brother
chong tan fok/lee wan wah is rank no.4, not 5
and koo kien keat/tan boon heong is rank no.5, not no.6
the malay pair is rank no.13, not no.11

check this out
http://www.internationalbadminton.org/ranking_ms.asp?id=3

The news George posted was from today's the Star :
http://www.thestar.com.my/sports/story.asp?file=/2008/4/25/sports/21060558&sec=sports

__________________________________________________ ____________

Ng Hui Lin is back in action, good news for our WD & XD in 2012 OG :
:D:D

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Friday April 25, 2008

Hui Lin set to make Uber Cup debut after change of heart

KUALA LUMPUR: Over a month ago, national back-up doubles shuttler Ng Hui Lin handed in her resignation letter to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

She cited her studies as a reason for quitting the national team.
Fortunately, the world junior mixed doubles champion has had a change of heart.

Now, the talented youngster is seen as one of the players with the ability to contribute a point for Malaysia in the Uber Cup Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.

In the Finals, the 18-year-old bubbly Hui Lin, who won the world junior mixed doubles title with Lim Khim Wah last year, will team up with KLRC Bhd’s Lim Pek Siah as the country’s second doubles.

In the Uber Cup qualifying tournament in February, Hui Lin-Pek Siah helped Malaysia seal a place in the Finals by clinching the winning point in the 3-1 victory over Singapore in the quarter-finals.

They will be joined by top pair Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty, Woon Khe Wei-Goh Liu Ying and four singles players – Wong Mew Choo, Julia Wong, Lydia Cheah and Anita Raj Kaur.

The names will be confirmed during BAM’s coaching and training committee meeting today.

Hui Lin said she changed her mind after finding out that she had a chance to play in the Uber Cup team.

“I was at a crossroad after the Swiss Open in March. I wanted to leave the national set-up because I wanted to pursue my studies. I also did not want to miss out being a normal teenager. Here (in the national set-up), it is all about badminton,” said Hui Lin.

“My parents told me the pros and cons of being a national player and left it to me to decide. Finally, I decided to stay and focus on my preparation for the Uber Cup,” she said.

Since deciding against quitting the national, Hui Lin has been hard at work – especially on getting fit for the challenging task ahead.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/4/25/sports/21058577.asp&sec=sports

Good to know Ng Hui Lin is staying :)

brother
chong tan fok/lee wan wah is rank no.4, not 5
and koo kien keat/tan boon heong is rank no.5, not no.6
the malay pair is rank no.13, not no.11

check this out
http://www.internationalbadminton.org/ranking_ms.asp?id=3
yeah, its not my fault..
u shud go and sue TheStar if they provide wrong information...
haha:)

Badminton: Kim Hock hopes stint in PD will build up team confidence and unity


PETALING JAYA: Malaysia have a handful of first-timers in their teams for the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
And chief coach Yap Kim Hock hopes that the debutants will not turn out to be the weak links in the bids to reach at least the semi-finals of both the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup competitions.

Kim Hock is hoping that a three-day team-building camp in Port Dickson from May 2-4 will do the trick to build up the team's confidence and also unity among the players. Both the men's and women's teams for the Finals will begin centralised training in Bukit Jalil today.

“Most of the first-timers are youngsters. But they have showed that they have quality in their games. We, the coaches and their team-mates, must inject confidence in them. These players must believe that they can also rise to the occasion,” he said.

Those making their debuts in the Thomas Cup Finals are Mohd Arif Abdul Latif and doubles players Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari.

The others in the team are Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah and Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong.
Kien Keat and Boon Heong will be playing in the Finals for the first time as a pair. In the previous Finals in Japan two years ago, Kien Keat partnered Chan Chong Ming while Boon Heong was the reserve doubles player together with Chew Choon Eng.

“When we start the centralised training tomorrow, all the players will train together in Bukit Jalil in the morning but the coaches have been given the permissions to have their own programmes, court or physical training, in the afternoon,” said Kim Hock.

“That is why I consider the three-day camp in Port Dickson as a very important platform to strengthen team unity and self-confidence. There will be no badminton during this three-day camp. The debutants and experienced players will get to mingle and motivate each other.”

Malaysia last won the Thomas Cup in 1992 in Kuala Lumpur. The best result for the women's team in the Uber Cup was a quarter-final appearance in Jakarta in 2004 when they qualified for the Finals on merit for the first time.

tats nice.. get a break from baddy?? might do them some good?? :D

tats nice.. get a break from baddy?? might do them some good?? :D

They go there BBQ and play beach volleyball while LCW and WMC go there paktor :D:p (just kidding)

The article Jimbo posted was from today's The Star.

__________________________________________________ ___________________

On the young Arif & Tee JY:

NST
Badminton: Arif wants to prove a point in Thomas Cup

By AJITPAL SINGH

2008/04/28

ARIF Latif is not interested with simply being a reserve. If need be, the 19-year-old believes he is good enough to deliver a point for Malaysia in the Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18.

"I'm confident of playing as the third singles. I'm ready to shoulder responsibility and deliver even if it is a crucial tie where I'm in a must-win situation, said an up-beat Arif." Arif, who is in the 2010-2012 Project squad, is making his debut in the Thomas Cup Finals, but his inclusion came as a surprise to many badminton enthusiasts considering there are several more experienced shuttlers in the country.

In the Asian Zone Qualifier in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in February, Arif Latif played the opening match against Cambodia as a third singles player, which he won.

"Some (players) may feel comfortable as a reserve but it will be depressing if I don't get a chance to see action in Jakarta. However, I would not be upset if I don't get to play as there are better shuttlers in the team," added Ariff, who is ranked World No 76.

"Besides that, national pride is at stake in the Thomas Cup and only the best and those in-form should play." Arif's rise in the sport has been exceptional off late.

Included in his performances at the senior level were winning the Iran Fajr Open in Teheran in February and reaching the second round of the recent Asian Championships.

Meanwhile, Penang's Tee Jing Yi, also a surprise inclusion, hopes to play at least a small role in helping the team in the Uber Cup Finals.

The 17-year-old, ranked World No 167, won the recent Malaysian Schools Sports Council (MSSM) Under-18 women's singles title on Saturday.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/Sport/2225331/Article/pppull_index_html

Same news from malay press

Berita Harian : http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Monday/Sukan/20080427230909/Article/print_html

..any news on who, what and how this yr's Thomas & Uber Cups' mascot(s) looks like??...Or are they even going to have one??..I remember 2 yrs ago, the mascots were so cute...hmmm...:confused: :cool:

NST

Badminton / Build up to Thomas Cup: Misbun: Hafiz is grooving again

By : Ajitpal Singh (ajitpalsingh@nst.com.my)


http://www.nst.com.my/Tuesday/Sport/2226396/insidepix1
Hafiz Hashim celebrates his victory over China’s Bao Chunlai at the Asian Badminton Championships in Johor Baru on April 17. Hafiz won 21-23, 21-15,21-15.

HAFIZ Hashim, though a lot more inconsistent than consistent of late, can nevertheless spring some surprises when least expected.

And national singles coach Misbun Sidek believes that Hafiz's recent win over China's Bao Chunlai at the Asian Badminton Championships was not a fluke but instead feels the player is gradually getting back to his best.

"If he (Hafiz) can play the way he did against Chunlai, he will be Malaysia's trump card in the Thomas Cup in Jakarta," said Misbun at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

"Like I said before, Hafiz is one of the most skilful players in the world and if he plays with more heart and passion, he can rise to the occasion against tough opponents in Jakarta."

In the recent Asian Championships, Hafiz stunned World No 3 Chunlai in the third round but lost tamely to Indonesia's Sony Dwi Kuncoro in the quarter-finals.
Misbun added that as the third singles for Malaysia, Hafiz will be an important cog in the country's chances in the Thomas Cup.

"Hafiz is aware of his role and I'm preparing him for the challengers in the event." said Misbun.

"What I have come to realise he is more patient and determined in training and this is a sure sign that his love for the game is back." Malaysia are in Group C with England and South Korea for the Thomas Cup Finals.

On the crucial match against South Korea, Misbun said that Malaysia will have to win the three singles.

"The Koreans are strong in the doubles and it will be tough for Malaysia to win points there."

Meanwhile, all the Jakarta-bound shuttlers have been passed fit after medical check-ups last week.

However, it was found that World No 4 Choong Tan Fook and Lee Wan Wah's respective cholesterol levels were slightly above average.

National doubles coach Rexy Mainaky said a special diet programme has been formulated for the duo. "However, regardless of their cholesterol levels, it will not affect their performance in the Thomas Cup," said Rexy yesterday.


http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2226396/Article/index_html

NST

Badminton / Build up to Thomas Cup: Injury rules out Liu Ying

By Ajitpal Singh

2008/04/29

DEBUTANTE Goh Liu Ying has been ruled out of the Uber Cup Finals in Jakarta, Indonesia on May 11-18 after she twisted her right knee during training in Bukit Jalil last Friday. National chief coach Yap Kim Hock confirmed that the 19-year-old will not be available for event.

"Her injury is quite serious and on doctors' advice we felt it would be unwise to risk playing her," said Kim Hock at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

"Fortunately, a scan showed she had not torn any ligaments but if the injury was aggravated it could risk her playing career."

Kim Hock opted for Sabrina Chong as a replacement.

Liu Ying, who is from Malacca, was picked as an option for the doubles in the Malaysia team. Together with playing partner Woon Khe Wei, the pair were selected for the Finals after their fine performances in several recent tournaments. Last month the pair reached the semi-finals of the India Open.

However, Kim Hock said Liu Ying's absence will not affect Malaysia's chances in the Uber Cup.

"She does not form the core of the team. We still have two strong doubles pairs," said Kim Hock.

Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin were Kim Hock's picks to play in most of the matches in the Finals.


__________________________________________________ _____________

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Tuesday April 29, 2008

Knee injury rules Liu Ying out of Uber Cup squad

KUALA LUMPUR: Youngster Goh Liu Ying's hopes to feature in her first Uber Cup Finals have gone up in smoke.

The 19-year-old was dropped from the team yesterday because of a knee injury yesterday and she would be replaced by either Sabrina Chong or Lim Yin Loo.

Both Sabrina and Yin Loo were tried out in partnership with Woon Khe Wei on the first day of the centralised camp at the Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil.
National chief coach Yap Kim Hock said that doubles coach Rexy Mainaky would name the replacement for Liu Ying soon.

“The change for our third ranked pair will not affect our team's preparation. We still have two strong pairs,” said Kim Hock.

The top two pairs are Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin.

Besides Liu Ying, veteran men's doubles shuttlers Choong Tan Fook and Lee Wan Wah were also missing from the morning training session yesterday.

Said Wan Wah: “Results of medical tests last week showed higher cholesterol in our bodies. We had to go for a blood test today and it was confirmed that our cholesterol level is back to normal.”

The duo resumed training in the afternoon.

__________________________________________________ _______

Poor Liu Ying, hope she recovers soon, next Uber Cup she'll have the chance to give it a go.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/4/29/sports/21091692.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Tuesday April 29, 2008

Badminton: Beware the Korean bite
By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: South Korea have a small team for their challenge in the Thomas Cup Finals but they are certainly a big threat to the other top contenders for the coveted world men's team title.

South Korea will parade their best players in the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18 after all. They had indicated earlier that their top stars would prefer to stay home to concentrate on their preparation for the Beijing Olympics in August.

Malaysia's singles coach Misbun Sidek sees the Koreans having a team who can challenge defending champions China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Denmark for every point in a five-match tie.

South Korea have named four singles players – Park Sung-hwan, Lee Hyun-il, Shon Seung-mo and Hong Ji-hoon. But unlike the four other title contenders, they have opted for only two pairs instead of three. And Jung Jae-jung-Lee Yong-dae and Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-man have showed that they are good bets to win points for their team.

“Koreans have always been dominant in the men's doubles. And their pairs have produced impressive results in recent tournaments. They can bank on getting two points from the doubles and one from the singles,” said Misbun at the Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

“Their singles players have improved and can give the others a run for their money. They are no longer the dark horses of the tournament. Their improved performances have certainly made this year's challenge for the Thomas Cup more interesting.”

At first singles, Misbun said that Asian champion Sung-hwan could challenge Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei, China's Lin Dan, Denmark's Kenneth Jonassen and Indonesia's Sony Dwi Kuncoro.

“On paper, the world number one Lin Dan is hard to beat but he is not invincible. In fact, Sung-hwan has a good record against him,” said Misbun.

“Sony is difficult to beat at his home ground while Kenneth can pull off surprises. Chong Wei must raise his game higher to keep pace with these players. It will be evenly contested.”

At second singles, the five players in the rank with Hyun-il are Wong Choong Hann (Mas), Bao Chunlai (Chn), Taufik Hidayat (Ina) and Peter Gade-Christensen (Den).

“Taufik looks the strongest here while Chunlai is also formidable. But this has been a comeback year for Hyun-il. He does not show a lot of emotion but he is a determined fellow. Peter's form depends on whether he has recovered from a series of injuries. It will be tough for Choong Hann,” said Misbun.

South Korea probably does not have the strongest player in the third singles but Misbun does not want to rule out Seung-mo, a silver medallist at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

The other third singles in order of world rankings are Chen Jin (Chn), Mohd Hafiz Hashim (Mas), Simon Santoso (Ina) and Joachim Persson (Den).

“On paper, Chen Jin is the strongest third singles player. But Seung-mo has not been playing much of late and we do not really know his true strength,” said Misbun.

“Hafiz did well at the recent ABC (Asian Championships). If he can play like he did in Johor Baru and further improve on his physical condition, he can turn out to be the strongest third singles. It all depends on how much Hafiz wants it.”

Meanwhile, national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky said that the challenge in the doubles would be open and he hoped that the Malaysian pairs rise to the occasion to deliver.

Except for Indonesia's scratch combination of Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto, the other pairs know each other's game very well and it all depends on who play the right card.

Candra-Nova will be a tough nut to crack but their presence have certainly added an element of excitement to the Finals.

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports

Tuesday April 29, 2008

Doubles ace Pek Siah seeks one final hurrah

KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles shuttler Lim Pek Siah is looking at hanging up her racquet after playing competitively for 12 years.

And the 29-year-old shutttler from professional outfit KLRC Bhd has vowed to give her best in the Uber Cup Finals. She is the oldest player in the team and forms the second ranked pair with young debutant Ng Hui Lin.

“I have been in this business (of playing badminton) for a long time and the Uber Cup will be my last tournament,” said Pek Siah.

“My combination with Hui Lin is shaping up well. I will be making my first appearance in the Finals and hopefully, we (Hui Lin and I) will be able to achieve the best results for Malaysia.”

The last time Malaysia qualified for the Finals, on merit, for the first time, was in 2004, also in Jakarta. The team then made it to the quarter-finals and the target for the squad this time is a semi-final appearance.

Knee injury rules Liu Ying out of Uber Cup squad

KUALA LUMPUR: Youngster Goh Liu Ying's hopes to feature in her first Uber Cup Finals have gone up in smoke.
The 19-year-old was dropped from the team yesterday because of a knee injury yesterday and she would be replaced by either Sabrina Chong or Lim Yin Loo.
Both Sabrina and Yin Loo were tried out in partnership with Woon Khe Wei on the first day of the centralised camp at the Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil.
National chief coach Yap Kim Hock said that doubles coach Rexy Mainaky would name the replacement for Liu Ying soon.
“The change for our third ranked pair will not affect our team's preparation. We still have two strong pairs,” said Kim Hock.
The top two pairs are Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin.
Besides Liu Ying, veteran men's doubles shuttlers Choong Tan Fook and Lee Wan Wah were also missing from the morning training session yesterday.
Said Wan Wah: “Results of medical tests last week showed higher cholesterol in our bodies. We had to go for a blood test today and it was confirmed that our cholesterol level is back to normal.”
The duo resumed training in the afternoon.

from badzine.info

http://www.badzine.info/content/view/1021/

hmmm.. seems like korea did field their best after all.. :D

Good to know.....NHL is back....its Ng Hui Lin not National Hockey League....hehehehehe

The picture is cute. Sabrina = Chong Sook Chin

NST

Badminton / Build up to Thomas Cup: Sabrina finally gets her break

By : AJITPAL SINGH (ajitpalsingh@nst.com.my)



addthis_pub = 'nstonline';
http://www.nst.com.my/Wednesday/Sport/2227272/insidepix1
Women’s doubles player Sabrina Chong takes a break during training at the National Sports Council in Bukit Jalil yesterday. Pic: KHALID REDZA

SABRINA Chong has always wanted to represent the country in the Uber Cup Finals.


But when the opportunity came, the 21-year-old was overlooked by national chief coach Yap Kim Hock in favour of junior shuttler Goh Liu Ying for the Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18.

However, her chance came about again when Liu Ying was sidelined following an injury to her right knee during training last Friday.

Unaware about Liu Ying's injury, Sabrina, whose forte is the doubles, was in daze when she received a call from Kim Hock to join training on Monday.

"I'm still in daze over the whole matter. Last week, I was out from the Uber Cup team and now I'm back. I will not waste this opportunity regardless whether I get a chance to play in any of the matches," said Sabrina at the National Sports Centre (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday.



"However, I feel sad for my friend, Liu Ying who really wanted to play in the Finals."

Sabrina, a member of the national back-up squad, and Woon Khe Wei are the reserve pair for Malaysia.

Sabrina, who is from Petaling Jaya, has been competing regularly overseas and reached the semi-finals of last year's Malaysian Satellite Championships and the Macau Open, both in the women's doubles with partner Ameila Anselley.

On whether she has teamed up with any of the doubles shuttlers in the Uber Cup team, she said she had only done so in training. "However, I should have no problems adapting to their game," she added.

The top two pairs in the doubles are Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin.

Kim Hock said he picked Sabrina over the other shuttlers because she is a solid player.

"She can partner anyone in the doubles and this will be an asset," said Kim Hock.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Sport/2227272/Article/index_html

NST

30 April 2008

Badminton / Build up to Thomas Cup: Choong Hann, Hafiz hold key

By Ajitpal Singh

2008/04/30

NATIONAL chief coach Yap Kim Hock believes that Malaysia's fortunes in the Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18 will depend on Wong Choong Hann and Hafiz Hashim's form. Choong Hann, the World No 14, and Hafiz, will play the second and third singles, respectively.

However, Kim Hock admitted that it will be a tall order for them to raise their respective games.

"If you compare their respective forms two years ago at the Tokyo edition, they were better then. Hafiz has failed to find his touch while Choong Hann's problem is more psychological.

"Choong Hann still fears he may aggravate his old injury and this sometimes causes him to avoid certain style of play, while Hafiz has been inconsistent for the past couple of years," said Kim Hock.

"But if they perform in Jakarta, I believe Malaysia will have a chance to fight for the title."

Choong Hann injured himself by snapping an Achilles tendon while facing South Korea in the quarter-final tie of the Thomas Cup in Tokyo, and was forced to rest for the next six months.

But since his return, he has experienced mixed fortunes.

However, he showed glimpses of excellent form when he reached the quarter-finals of the recent Asian Championships in Johor Baru.

"Choong Hann and Hafiz need to raise their respective games and I have advised them to treat the Thomas Cup like it was their last tournament," Kim Hock added.

However, the coach said Malaysia were not the only country with a weak lineup.

"Teams like China, Denmark, Indonesia and South Korea are also either weak in the singles or doubles. We can beat these top teams to the title if we take advantage of their respective weakness."

In the second singles, the four players Choong Hann could meet are World No 3 Bao Chunlai (China), Peter Gade-Christensen (Denmark), reigning Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat (Indonesia) and Lee Hyun-Il (Korea).

Hafiz is likely to face Chen Jin (China), Joachim Persson (Denmark), Simon Santoso (Indonesia) and Shon Seung-Mo (Korea) in the third singles.

Kim Hock also brushed off claims by countries who said the Thomas Cup was not their priority.

"I believe all of them are taking the Thomas Cup seriously as a good showing will give them a boost ahead of the Olympic Games in August," said Kim Hock.

Malaysia have been drawn with South Korea and England in Group C in Jakarta.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Sport/2227268/Article/pppull_index_html

Interview with Hafiz in Harian Metro :
http://www.hmetro.com.my/Current_News/myMetro/Wednesday/Arena/20080430083603/Article/print_html
Basically Hafiz says the tie against Korea is 50-50, fighting all the way from 1st to last match. This is cos it will most probably end at 3-2. Plus it's played in a very noisy environment, will test the players mental strength to the limit.

Interview with Wong Choon Han in Utusan Msia
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0430&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Sukan&pg=su_03.htm
Choong Han tekad tebus kekecewaan

WCH determined to redeem disappointment

Oleh FERZALFIE FAUZI

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2008/0430/Utusan_Malaysia/Sukan/su_03.1.jpg
Koo Kien Keat dan Tan Boon Heong (kanan) giat menjalani latihan persediaan Piala Thomas di Bukit Jalil sambil diperhatikan oleh Rexy Mainaky (kiri).


KUALA LUMPUR - Pemain badminton perseorangan negara Wong Choong Han bertekad mahu menebus kembali kekecewaannya selepas mengalami kecederaan kaki pada saingan suku akhir bertemu Korea Selatan ketika Kejohanan Piala Thomas 2006.

Menurut Choong Han, dia kini sudah kembali pulih sepenuhnya dan bersedia untuk beraksi dengan penuh bersemangat pada di Jakarta Mei depan.

''Kecederaan yang dialami ketika bertemu pemain Korea Selatan, Park Sung Hwang dua tahun lalu memang amat mengecewakan saya tetapi kali ini saya berazam akan kembali untuk menebus kehampaan seterusnya membawa pulan Piala Thomas ke Malaysia,'' katanya ketika ditemui Utusan Malaysia semalam.

WCH is determined to redeem the disappointment of Achiless Tendon injury sustained 2 years ago in match against Korea. He has since fully recovered and all fired up for action in Jakarta.

Jelasnya, walaupun mempunyai misi peribadi tetapi dia akan lebih tertumpu kepada kepentingan pasukan kerana kejohanan ini melibatkan permainan secara berpasukan bukannya individu.

''Saya mahu lakukan yang terbaik pada kejohanan kali ini kerana saya pasti ini adalah Piala Thomas yang terakhir buat saya, selepas ini saya akan memberi peluang kepada pemain lain yang lebih muda.

"I want to do my best cos this is my last TC, after this I will give chance to younger players."

''Tetapi tumpuan saya sekarang tertumpu kepada persediaan ke Jakarta, sebagai pemain perseorangan kedua saya akan bertemu dengan pemain yang hebat dan pasti saingan yang diberikan bukannya mudah,'' kata pemain berusia 31 tahun itu.

Kata Choong Han, selaku pemain perseorangan kedua negara dia sudah bersedia untuk bersemuka dengan pemain dari negara lain termasuk Korea Selatan, Indonesia, China dan Denmark.

''Kalau menentang Korea Selatan saya akan bertemu Lee Hyun Il dan mengikut rekod pertemuan saya mempunyai kelebihan ke atasnya, begitu juga pemain perseorangan kedua Indonesia saya tidak mempunyai rekod buruk bertemu dengannya ia berkedudukan 50-50.

"As 2nd singles I will meet great/strong players and for sure the fight wouldnt be easy"
"If against Korea I will meet LHI, from head to head record I have advantage, same as Indonesia's 2nd singles, the record is not bad at 50-50."

''Tetapi masalah mungkin timbul kalau Malaysia bertemu China kerana rekod saya dengan pemain perseorangan kedua mereka Bao Chunlai tidak memihak kepada saya termasuk pemain perseorangan kedua Denmark Peter Gade,'' katanya.

Choong Han menegaskan itu semua tidak menjadi halangan buatnya untuk memberi fokus sepenuhnya dalam latihan menjelang kejohanan yang berlangsung dua tahun sekali itu.

"But problems may arise if Msia meet China cos my head-to head with BCL is not for me. Same goes with Denmark's 2nd singles Peter Gade."
But WCH insists it is not obstacle for him to give full focus in training/preparations.

''Kalau seseorang pemain itu sudah bersedia, apa-apa pun boleh terjadi, begitu juga dengan saya, kalau saya mempunyai persiapan yang secukupnya dari mental dan fizikal tidak mustahil ada kejutan yang akan dilakukan nanti.
''Saya masih ingat lagi bagaimana insiden kecederaan itu berlaku di Jepun dua tahun lalu yang menyebabkan hampir enam bulan saya terpaksa berehat ekoran kecederaan tumit tendon, tetapi sekarang saya sudah bersedia untuk bermain sebaik mungkin,'' kata Choong Han.

Bagaimanapun Choong Han tidak menafikan keadaan sekarang berbanding dua tahun lepas memang ternyata berbeza terutama dari faktor kedudukannya serta prestasinya.

''Pada tahun 2006 saya berada antara lapan pemain terbaik dunia tetapi sekarang saya berada di kedudukan 14 pemain terbaik dunia, tiada apa yang mampu dilakukan kecuali dengan berusaha lebih keras.

''Saya juga sudah berusia jikalau dulu saya berusia 29 tahun tetapi sekarang saya sudah 'tua' 31 tahun memang ia begitu berbeza sekali,'' kata pemain itu dalam nada berseloroh.

"If a player is ready, anything can happen. Same with me, if I have sufficient preparation mentally & physically, a surprise may be launched."

Nevertheless WCH says his position & situation now is different from 2 years ago.
"In 2006, I was top 8 MS in the world but now I'm at WR 14, nothing more can be done except to work harder."
"I'm also older, I was 29, now I'm 'old' at 31, of course it's different" he said jokingly.

Ia merupakan penyertaan kali ke-6 Wong Choong Han dalam kejohanan Piala Thomas dan pemain kidal itu akan dilantik sebagai ketua pasukan bagi menggalas cabaran negara tahun ini.

This will WCH's 6th TC and this left hander will be appointed as team captain for Msia's team.

Di Jakarta nanti, Wong Choong Han akan menjadi pemain perseorangan kedua negara di belakang Lee Chong Wei selaku pemain perseorangan pertama sementara Hafiz Hashim memikul tanggungjawab sebagai pemain perseorangan ketiga, sementara pemain muda Ariff Latif sebagai pemain simpanan perseorangan.

List of MS players in Msia team = LCW, WCH, Hafiz, Arif

Choong Hann is certainly the best candidate for team captain!

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday April 30, 2008

Sabrina over the moon after getting Jakarta nod

PETALING JAYA: Shuttler Sabrina Chong (pic) is still in a daze over her last-minute inclusion in the team for the Uber Cup Finals.

Sabrina got the nod over Lim Yin Loo as the replacement for Goh Liu Ying, who was ruled out on Monday because of a knee injury.

And Liu Ying's pain is Sabrina's gain. The 21-year-old, who had resigned herself to being a sparring doubles partner in centralised training at the National Sports Complex in Bukit Jalil, will be on the flight to Jakarta in two weeks' time.

“I did not make the team but the chief coach (Yap Kim Hock) called me yesterday and informed me that I am in the squad as one of the doubles players.

“I still do not believe I am going. It is a dream come true to be in the Malaysian team for the Uber Cup Finals,” said the Petaling Jaya-born player from the national back-up squad.

Sabrina forms a doubles combination with Amelia Anscelly and their better results were reaching the Macau Open quarter-finals and Malaysian Satellite Open semi-finals over the past year. She also plays in the mixed doubles, partnering Mohd Razif Abdul Latif.

For the Uber Cup, Sabrina will be listed as the third ranked pair with Woon Khe Wei. The top two Malaysian pairs are Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin.

“I have to say thank you to Kim Hock for selecting me. I am also sorry for Liu Ying, who has to miss out on a golden opportunity because of injury,” she said.

Malaysia's strong showing in the qualifying rounds in Vietnam in February where they finished third earned them the fourth seed in the Finals ahead of Indonesia.

China, who have been unbeaten since 1998, are the top seeds followed by Japan and South Korea.

However, it will not be an easy task for the Malaysian women to reach the semi-finals. They have been drawn in Group C with Denmark and New Zealand.

The teams for them to beat in the quarter-finals could be Hong Kong, South Korea or Germany.

http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/4/30/sports/21104710.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday April 30, 2008


Absence of Zhang Ning will not hurt bid for six straight Uber Cup crown

By LIM TEIK HUAT

PETALING JAYA: Olympic women's singles champion Zhang Ning will not be in action in the Uber Cup Finals but it is not going to hurt China's chances of winning the title for the sixth consecutive time in Jakarta on May 17.

China's chief coach Li Yongbo has opted to exclude the veteran campaigner from the Finals to allow her to concentrate on preparing for the Beijing Olympics in August.

China still have a formidable line-up for the task in Jakarta.

World number one Xie Xingfang leads the singles players ahead of All-England runner-up Lu Lan, reigning world champion Zhu Lin and Jiang Yanjiao. Their pairs are Yang Wei-Zhang Jiewen, Wei Yili-Zhang Yawen and Gao Ling-Zhao Tingting, currently ranked first, second and 12th in the world respectively.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/4/30/sports/s_70rexy.jpg Master at work: Rexy Mainaky speaking to the men doubles players after a training session at the Bukit Jalil Sports Complex.

Malaysia's chief coach Yap Kim Hock does not see the absence of Zhang Ning diluting the strength of the Chinese side.

“Their doubles line-up are strong and they can field any two of the three pairs to win points,” he said.

“Their singles players have been beaten before but key players like Xingfang and Zhu Lin have the experience of playing in China's winning Sudirman Cup (world mixed team) sides. China can afford to drop one of their best players because of their all-round strength in singles and doubles.

“To beat China, a team have to score upset victories in the singles and doubles matches and it will be very difficult for any side to wrest the Cup from them.”

South Korea may have such an intention. They are one of the few teams who have stolen points off China in previous ties. But the draw this time sees them in the same group as Hong Kong and South Africa and it has thrown up a dilemma for them.

Winning Group B will give South Korea a direct route to the quarter-finals but they will have to face China if they advanced to the semi-finals.

It raises the possibility of the Koreans taking it easy against Hong Kong to finish as runners-up. That will require them to play an extra tie to reach the quarter-finals but it will put them in a different half as China.

“It will be interesting to see how South Korea comes out of the situation. They have a better chance to make the final if they finish as runners-up in their group,” said Kim Hock.

“They will play against Japan in the quarter-finals and they will face Malaysia or Denmark if they advance to the semi-finals.”

For Malaysia, it will be the second time in four years that they will be playing in the Uber Cup Finals and Kim Hock felt there was a chance for the team to reach the semi-finals for the first time in the series.

Malaysia have been drawn in Group C with Denmark and New Zealand. If they finish as the runners-up, they could still reach the quarter-finals against South Korea or Hong Kong. But if Malaysia can beat Denmark to top Group C, they will probably face Germany in the quarter-finals.

Germany are in Group A with China and the United States.

“Denmark will be banking on their top singles (Tine Rasmussen) and doubles (Lena Frier Kristiansen-Kamilla Rytter Juhl) but the other players in the team are relatively weaker. We stand a chance to beat them but Wong Mew Choo and the doubles pair of Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty have to deliver the points,” said Kim Hock.

http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/4/30/sports/21104087.asp&sec=sports

The picture is cute. Sabrina = Chong Sook Chin

NST

Badminton / Build up to Thomas Cup: Sabrina finally gets her break

By : AJITPAL SINGH (ajitpalsingh@nst.com.my)



addthis_pub = 'nstonline';
http://www.nst.com.my/Wednesday/Sport/2227272/insidepix1
Women’s doubles player Sabrina Chong takes a break during training at the National Sports Council in Bukit Jalil yesterday. Pic: KHALID REDZA

SABRINA Chong has always wanted to represent the country in the Uber Cup Finals.


But when the opportunity came, the 21-year-old was overlooked by national chief coach Yap Kim Hock in favour of junior shuttler Goh Liu Ying for the Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18.

However, her chance came about again when Liu Ying was sidelined following an injury to her right knee during training last Friday.

Unaware about Liu Ying's injury, Sabrina, whose forte is the doubles, was in daze when she received a call from Kim Hock to join training on Monday.

"I'm still in daze over the whole matter. Last week, I was out from the Uber Cup team and now I'm back. I will not waste this opportunity regardless whether I get a chance to play in any of the matches," said Sabrina at the National Sports Centre (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday.



"However, I feel sad for my friend, Liu Ying who really wanted to play in the Finals."

Sabrina, a member of the national back-up squad, and Woon Khe Wei are the reserve pair for Malaysia.

Sabrina, who is from Petaling Jaya, has been competing regularly overseas and reached the semi-finals of last year's Malaysian Satellite Championships and the Macau Open, both in the women's doubles with partner Ameila Anselley.

On whether she has teamed up with any of the doubles shuttlers in the Uber Cup team, she said she had only done so in training. "However, I should have no problems adapting to their game," she added.

The top two pairs in the doubles are Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui and Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin.

Kim Hock said he picked Sabrina over the other shuttlers because she is a solid player.

"She can partner anyone in the doubles and this will be an asset," said Kim Hock.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Sport/2227272/Article/index_html

so cute...^^...

beta don play play wit Sabrina.. she's gonna SMACK yoU! :D

beta don play play wit Sabrina.. she's gonna SMACK yoU! :D

:D:D, the photographer was there at the right moment. In the hard copy, she was showing her 'stance' to Khe Wei who was sitting on the bench with her during the break.

A more interesting caption would have been "Khe Wei ah, when bag snatcher wanted to pull my bag, I gave the fella this smash coach taught us, wooooff, he fell down the bike flat. Yonex also proud, their racket so useful." ;);), he he he

:D:D, the photographer was there at the right moment. In the hard copy, she was showing her 'stance' to Khe Wei who was sitting on the bench with her during the break.

A more interesting caption would have been "Khe Wei ah, when bag snatcher wanted to pull my bag, I gave the fella this smash coach taught us, wooooff, he fell down the bike flat. Yonex also proud, their racket so useful." ;);), he he he
Very good and funny caption.
Any others? George?

beta don play play wit Sabrina.. she's gonna SMACK yoU! :D
...
A more interesting caption would have been "Khe Wei ah, when bag snatcher wanted to pull my bag, I gave the fella this smash coach taught us, wooooff, he fell down the bike flat. Yonex also proud, their racket so useful." ;);), he he he
..she might've said "This is what i call 'Tai Chi Badminton'"...:cool:

I like Sabrina.. she is like my little sister in the team.

NST
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Sport/2228400/Article/pppull_index_html
Choong Hann eyeing a last hurrah


2008/05/01

JUST two years ago, Wong Choong Hann wasn't sure if he would ever play again after snapping an Achilles tendon while playing against Park Sung Hwan in the Thomas Cup quarter-final against South Korea in Tokyo, Japan. But today, he is back for a final hurrah in his sixth Thomas Cup outing in Jakarta on May 11-18.

Choong Hann, who was appointed captain of the Malaysian team, wants his last Thomas Cup outing to be the most memorable.

"It's my final outing and I want to lift the coveted title. It's something of a redemption for me as the thought of my injury has been haunting me the past two years," said Choong Hann yesterday.

"If only I was not injured in 2006, Malaysia would have lifted the title. God has given me a second chance to fulfil my wish and I hope to achieve it in Jakarta."

For the record, Choong Hann has played in the final of the Thomas Cup twice.

In his debut appearance in the 1998 Hong Kong edition, Malaysia were beaten 3-2 by Indonesia in the final.

He had a second chance in the 2002 edition in China, but Malaysia again lost 3-2 to Indonesia.

After suffering the injury in Tokyo, Choong Hann, the World No 14, took almost six months to make a full recovery.

"During that period, I wasn't sure if I would return as the recovery was slow. Doctors said my chances of competing again were 50-50 but I took it as a challenge and it paid off."

In Jakarta, Choong Hann, as the second singles, will face his first real task against Korean Open champion Lee Hyun Il in the second singles against South Korea in the group stage. He could also face China's Bao Chunlai, Peter Gade Christensen of Denmark and Indonesia's Taufik Hidayat. "Critics think that I'm the weak link in the Malaysian team but I'm hoping to prove them wrong by going undefeated in Jakarta.

"I may be older and slower but as an aging shuttler I'm much more wiser and more experienced."

Interesting, the coaches also have same thought as Korea, from Berita Harian :
Msia might surrender to Korea
http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Thursday/Sukan/20080501052440/Article/print_html

If Msia lose to Korea in group match, they will have to play an extra tie against Japan or Germany, bf meeting Indonesia in QF. Playing against Indonesia in QF is seen as winnable, to meet China in Finals.

If Msia win against Korea & later top the group, have to meet China in Semis, China is strong in all 3 MS, seen as harder to win. Yap & Rexy wouldnt say either way of course but looks like they are laying the ground work if they choose to meet Indonesia in QF.

But more interesting, eagle thinks, what if both Korea & Msia also want to lose to each other in group match, then they play, like "You win lah", and "No lah, you take this point lah."

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports

Thursday May 1, 2008


Badminton: More is expected from Boon Heong in second outing
By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles shuttler Tan Boon Heong has featured in the Thomas Cup Finals once before. But he still feels like a rookie for the Finals in Jakarta, beginning next Sunday. And he is banking on partner Koo Kien Keat to guide him to make a memorable outing.

At the last Finals in Japan, Boon Heong was a reserve doubles player together with Chew Choon Eng and they were given a match to play in the group tie against England.

But this time, Boon Heong-Kien Keat will be depended on heavily to deliver the goods for Malaysia as the second ranked pair in the team behind Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah. The other pair are Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.

Boon Heong is looking forward to playing the big role.
http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/1/sports/s_66koo.jpg Different ball game: Tan Boon Heong (left) was a reserve doubles player at the last Thomas Cup Finals in Japan.

“I think that my role at the last Finals was almost non-existent. It will be different this time. More is expected out of me and I feel as though I will be playing in the Finals for the first time,” said Boon Heong after training in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

“Kien Keat has the experience of having played in the last two editions. It will be the first time that we will play as a pair in the Finals and I am banking on him to guide me. He knows what to expect and I will give my best to complement him.”

Boon Heong feels that they will be able to live up to the country's expectations as the second doubles pair.

The pairs in the other teams in the same ranking are Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen (Denmark), Guo Zhengdong-Xie Zhongbo (China), Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-man (South Korea) and Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan (Indonesia).

“We have not lost to the Danes and Chinese. We have beaten the younger Indonesian pair but it will be a new experience to play against the third ranked Indonesian (Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto). But the Koreans are a difficult pair to beat,” said Boon Heong.

“But we have a shot at winning points against any of the pairs if we can continue to work on our game and be more focused on the court. We are enjoying playing together again and we hope to ride on that momentum.”

After struggling to find their footing, Boon Heong-Kien Keat gave performances that won praises from national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky in the recent Asian Championships in which they lost to Korean number one Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae in the semi-finals.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/1/sports/21116599.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 1, 2008


No fireworks if Malaysia, S. Korea decide to play safe

KUALA LUMPUR: The highly anticipated Group B tie between Malaysia and South Korea in the Thomas Cup Finals could end up as a tame affair if both decide to pull punches.

The draw for the knockout stage has the winners of the group getting a quarter-final match against either Thailand or Germany but heading for a semi-final encounter against defending champions and top seeds China.
National doubles coach Rexy Mainaky concedes that the chances of reaching the final are better from the other half of the draw.

If Malaysia finish as the runners-up in the group, they have to play one tie more to qualify for the quarter-finals against Indonesia. And victory will give them a tie against Denmark for a place in the final.
http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/1/sports/s_pg66park.jpg Number one: South Korea’s top ranked player Park Sung-hwan.


South Korea may also not want to field a team at full strength against Malaysia in the Finals. In the qualifying tournament in February, the Koreans fielded their top singles player Park Sung-hwan in a second doubles partnership with Hwang Ji-man.

Rexy said that he was more confident of Malaysia's chances if they were to meet Indonesia or Denmark en route to the final.

“For the sake of pride, it is best to beat South Korea to emerge as the group champions. It will be good for the team's morale,” said Rexy after a training session at Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil.

“But to go all the way to the final, the chances are better in the lower half of the draw. We have to weigh all aspects when we plot our strategy.”

Although Indonesia have the advantage as the hosts, Rexy said that the pressure of playing on home ground could turn against them.

“I have played in Senayan (the venue of the Finals) and I know the heavy pressure that comes with playing in front of the home fans,” said the Indonesian.

“But if we assess our players based on strength to strength, we have a shot at winning against Indonesia.”

The Malaysian singles line-up comprises Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.

The doubles pairs are Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong, Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari.

Indonesia have Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Taufik Hidayat, Simon Santoso and Tommy Sugiarto for the singles and their pairs are Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan, Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan and Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto.

“Chong Wei has a chance against Sony and past records show that Choong Hann has beaten Taufik a couple of times. But this is a team event and an experienced player like Choong Hann can make a lot of difference,” said Rexy.

“Indonesia may toy around with their doubles combinations but we too can also tweak with our pairs. I still believe our doubles have good chances against the Indonesians.”

On a tie against Denmark, Rexy said: “We certainly have a better chance against Denmark. We can take them in every singles and also give good fights in the doubles.”

Denmark have a singles line-up of Kenneth Jonassen, Peter Gade-Christensen, Joachim Persson, Jan Jorgensen and the doubles pairs of Jonas Rasmussen-Lars Paaske, Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen and Mathias Boe-Carsten Morgensen.

However, if Malaysia go for wins and get a semi-final tie against China, led by world number one Lin Dan, Rexy said: “I am not ruling out a possibility of a win too but it will be tough. The score line could be 2-3 or 3-2 or even 3-0.”
For the record, in the last Finals in Japan in 2006, Malaysia lost to Denmark in the semi-finals.

i would prefer malaysia play against ina in quater and (if win)denmark in semis...(should be no problem for malaysia win over denmark...and hopefully korea win china in another half...)then korea in final...

I think Rexy nailed it. It would be good for Malaysia to beat Korea and march into semi final match with China, but better if Malaysia becomes also-ran in the group which improve the chance of going into the final. I actually hope Malaysia to win all the matches in the group, and they can held their head high even losing in the semi to China. Facing Indonesia or Denmark isn't easy anyway. But it would be a disgrace to see both Malaysia and Korea team trying to lose just to avoid China. Imagine the players on court committing "kamikaze" by serving the shuttlecock into the net each time they serve;)

I've seen a lot of dud matches, I don't wanna see more.

If Malaysia or Korea has what it takes to win, they should not be scared and avoid China.

Win the cup on your own merit, if not, lose with fighting spirit, and keep you head up high ......

Wan Wah vows to bow out with a bang in Jakarta

KUALA LUMPUR: National doubles shuttler Lee Wan Wah may face the toughest challenge in his last Thomas Cup Finals outing but he is determined to go out with guns blazing.
Wan Wah will be making his seventh appearance with partner Choong Tan Fook in the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
The world number four pair will be playing as the country’s first doubles – a position they are accustomed to.
Malaysia’s other two pairs are ranked below them – world No. 5 Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and world No. 13 Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.
The 34-year-old Wan Wah has decided that this would be his last Thomas Cup Finals campaign.
“It is time for the youngsters to take over from us. I can’t believe I will be competing in my seventh Finals. Tan Fook and I have come a long way,” said Wan Wah.
As the first doubles, Tan Fook-Wan Wah could face these pairs from four other title contenders – world champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan of Indonesia, Jonas Rasmussen-Lars Paaske of Denmark, South Koreans Jung jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae and Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng of China.
“The standard of these pairs are all about the same. In fact, there is not much difference between the first and second doubles pairs,” said Wan Wah.
He, however, feels that the draw has not been favourable to Malaysia.
“It always happens to us. Most of the time, South Korea end up being in our group. We always have to clear one extra tough hurdle to make at least the semi-finals. Look at Denmark, they always get lucky,” he said.
If Malaysia emerge as group champions, they are likely to take on China in the semi-finals.
If Malaysia finish behind South Korea in the group, they will probably take on Indonesia in the quarter-finals. The winner will face Denmark.
Out of last six Finals stints, Wan Wah said that he achieved his most memorable and worst experiences in one outing – the 2002 Finals in Guangzhou.
“We did well to reach the semi-finals (by beating China) but Tan Fook-and I were a letdown in the final (against Indonesia),”said Wan Wah, who had to go for a knee surgery immediately after that.”

Hafiz seeks a perfect parting gift for Nusa Mahsuri

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: The Thomas Cup Finals will be Mohd Hafiz Hashim’s last stint as a Nusa Mahsuri player.
And he is determined to repay the good deeds of the professional club by living up to his role as the country’s third singles and trump card in the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
The 26-year-old Hafiz could make or break the team’s chances if the tie goes down to the wire.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/2/sports/s_58hafiz.jpg Hafiz: ‘I have an opportunity to repay Nusa for the faith they had in me and I want to thank them by doing well.’
The other singles players in the team are world number two Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann and reserve Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.
“The country comes first for me. I will be playing a crucial role and I am determined to deliver. If I win, it will be great for the country. And it will also be good for Nusa,” said Hafiz.
“I have been with Nusa for nine years. I am bent on joining another club – the KLRC Bhd – after the Finals although nothing has been finalised yet. For now, I have an opportunity to repay Nusa for the faith they had in me and I want to thank them by doing well.”
Based on his results in the Super Series event in the past year and slump in form, Hafiz is certainly not the strongest player at third singles.
He could be up against Chen Jin of China, Simon Santoso of Indonesia, Shon Seung-mo of South Korea and Denmark’s Joachim Persson.
But Hafiz said that playing in a team event was a different ball game.
He added that he would come good for Malaysia in the Finals, especially after his excellent third round win over world No. 3 Bao Chunlai of China in the Asian Badminton Championships (ABC) in Johor Baru last month.
And this could be a good omen because Hafiz, who bowed out in the quarter-finals of the ABC, last defeated Chunlai at the Thomas Cup Finals in Guangzhou in 2002.
“I am still trying to improve my physical condition and I am still afraid of aggravating my Achilles tendon injury. The pain is still there too. So, nobody expects me to do well,” said Hafiz.
“But I promise that I will deliver the goods, no matter what – even if it means having to play through the pain barrier. If I can stay mentally strong, I can give all the other third singles a run for their money.”
Today, Hafiz and his team-mates will leave for Port Dickson for a three-day team-building camp.

I've seen a lot of dud matches, I don't wanna see more.

If Malaysia or Korea has what it takes to win, they should not be scared and avoid China.

Win the cup on your own merit, if not, lose with fighting spirit, and keep you head up high ......
..i concur 200%!:cool:..And this also applies to all the other squads..:cool:

Interview with Rashid Sidek : selected portion translated only

Harian Metro
2 May
http://www.hmetro.com.my/Current_News/myMetro/Friday/Arena/20080502083147/Article/print_html

Elak gugup

Avoid Nervousness
Oleh Esme Johari Wahab
esme@hmetro.com.my


SKUAD badminton negara tidak perlu bimbang ancaman Korea Selatan dan Indonesia jika serius memasang impian muncul sebagai pencabar terkuat pada kejohanan badminton Piala Thomas 2008 di Stadium Istora Senayan, Jakarta, minggu depan, kata Rashid Sidek.

Rashid, 40, mengetuai skuad negara kali terakhir menjulang Piala Thomas pada 16 Mei 1992 selaku perseorangan pertama, menyifatkan skuad negara perlu motivasi paling tinggi untuk berdepan lawan berbeza terutamanya di peringkat kumpulan sebelum mara ke suku akhir atau separuh akhir.

Rashid, 40, was leading the team as 1st singles the last time Msia won TC in 1992. He considers the national squad needs to be in the highest motivation level to face opponents in group matches bf going to QF & SF.

“Saya bercakap melalui pengalaman. Korea Selatan lebih sukar berbanding England. Kita kerap tewas kepada Korea kerana gugup dengan mentaliti melawan mereka. Sekalipun perseorangan pertama kecundang, Korea Selatan satu pasukan ‘besar kepala’ yang akan terus bangkit melawan tanpa mengambil kira siapa lawan. Skuad kita tewas 3-2 pada Korea Selatan pada peringkat kumpulan pada 1992.

"I am talking thru experience. Korea is more difficult to beat than England. We often lose cos of nervousness. Although their 1st singles lost, Korea can rise up & fight, irregardless of their opponents. We lost to Korea 2-3 during group match in 1992."

“Tidak mustahil mereka menggunakan inspirasi seperti itu untuk menentang kita di Jakarta. Jadi, selaku pemain perseorangan utama, Lee Chong Wei perlu memastikan kita tidak tercicir mata pertama kerana dia memegang peratus paling tinggi sebagai pelonjak motivasi.

It's not impossible they will use this inspiration to beat us in Jakarta. So, as 1st singles, LCW must make sure we dont lose the 1st point cos he holds the highest % as motivation catalyst.

“Semangat tinggi beregu Korea mampu menundukkan kita walaupun beregu kedua kita jauh lebih baik daripada beregu kedua mereka. Skuad kita perlu waspada dengan fakta itu dan tetap bersemangat kental terus berjuang.

"The fighting spirit of the Korea MD can defeat us although our 2nd MD is far better than their 2nd MD. Our squad needs to be watchful of this & keep the strong fighting spirit all the way."

“Selepas itu, baru fikirkan tentangan Indonesia pada peringkat lapan terakhir. Kita dan Indonesia mempunyai peluang 50-50, lagipun mereka membuat rombakan pada beregu kedua yang mungkin sedikit kurang pengalaman,” katanya kepada Arena Metro, semalam.

"Then only think of Indonesia in QF. Against Indonesia the chances are 50-50. Although they had some changes, their 2nd MD maybe a little less experience (as a pair)."

Cabaran perseorangan akan digalas oleh Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann dan Hafiz Hashim sementara beregu, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah dan Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong.

Rashid, memiliki karier hebat selaku pemain utama negara, menewaskan juara dunia, Heryanto Arbi untuk meraih pingat gangsa Sukan Olimpik 1992 di Barcelona, masih kekal sebagai pemain termuda di usia 12 tahun menjuarai Kejohanan Badminton Remaja Kebangsaan 1980.

Ditanya mengenai prospek dan prestasinya memikul bebanan sebagai pemain utama perseorangan Malaysia, Rashid berkata: “Saya rasa kejayaan Piala Thomas paling hebat dalam karier walaupun ia acara berpasukan. Saya tidak pernah menewaskan pemain utama dunia kecuali pada Piala Thomas dan saya tidak pernah tewas dalam semua perlawanan dilalui hingga kita menang 3-2 mengatasi Indonesia di final.

Rashid, when asked of his best achivements as MS player :" I think the TC win was the best although it was a team event. I never beat the top players in the world except during TC. IN 1992 TC, I didnt lose any matches till the end when we won against Indonesia.

“Saya mengatasi Paul Erik Hoyer Larsen di peringkat kumpulan, Zhao Jianhua (China) di separuh akhir dan Ardy Wiranata (Indonesia) pada final. Kejayaan berterusan membuat rakan-rakan sepasukan lain terus bersemangat dan saya harap barisan melakukan perkara sama di Jakarta.

"I beat Paul Erik in group match, Zhao Jianhua in SF, Ardy Wiranata in Finals. THe sucess made the other team mates have high spirit to fight on & I hope the current team is able to do the same in Jakarta.

Mengenai Chong Wei, Rashid, ranking pertama dunia pada 1997, berkata, Chong Wei perlu sokongan pasukan.

“Saya tidak tahu bagaimana dia motivasi diri sendiri tetapi Chong Wei perlu memberi mata pertama. Saya harap dia tidak goyah memikul tanggungjawab perseorangan pertama untuk semua perlawanan penting Piala Thomas,” kata ketua jurulatih Projek Pelapis 2010-2012 itu.

About LCW, Rashid said LCW needs team support. "I dont know how he motivates himself but LCW has to deliver the 1st point. I hope he doesnt falter to hold the responsiblity of 1st singles in all matches of TC."

Interview with KKK, for KKK's die hard fans :

Berita Harian
http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Saturday/Sukan/20080503001556/Article/print_html

3 May

Kien Keat tidak sabar beraksi - KKK can wait to see action

Oleh Ahmad Khawari Isa



TIGA kemunculan, tiga pasangan. Koo Kien Keat kini mengharapkan penampilan pada pusingan akhir Piala Thomas di Jakarta, bermula 11 Mei ini mampu dinoktahkan dengan pencapaian gembira layak beraksi pada pertentangan kemuncak.

3 apprearances, 3 partners. KKK hopes this time's apperance with end with happy note in climax match.

Kali pertama dia beroleh peluang merasai keghairahan aksi Piala Thomas ialah di Jakarta pada 2004, tetapi lebih berwatak pengganti dengan kombinasi bersama Chew Choon Eng.

1st in action was in Jakarta 2004, partnering CCE as replacement (for CCM who injured his shoulder).

Dua tahun lalu di Jepun, wataknya lebih ketara apabila dipasangkan bersama Chan Chong Ming untuk membentuk peranan selaku pasangan kedua di belakang Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah.

2 years ago (2006), his role was more prominent when partnered with CCM to form 2nd MD behind CTF/LWW.

Kali ini, posisi kedua tetap sama - cuma bezanya, Tan Boon Heong jadi gandingannya. Dan berdasarkan aturan strategi, tidak mustahil mereka juga bakal disandarkan harapan selaku beregu pertama dalam beberapa persaingan.

Now, is also 2nd MD, but with TBH. If based on strategy, not impossible they will be fielded as main pair in a few matches.

“Bagi saya, Piala Thomas ini istimewa. Sukar untuk saya cerita atau gambarkan keistimewaannya. Ia cabaran berpasukan. Malah saya akui bahawa berada dalam pasukan Piala Thomas lebih menarik berbanding bertanding secara individu,” katanya.

"For me TC is special. Different for me to tell or express what's special about it. It's a team event. For me, being in TC team is more exciting than in individual event."

Kien Keat juga akur bahawa tanggungjawab dipikul lebih berat kerana memikirkan harapan seluruh anggota pasukan lainnya, tetapi ia dibalas pula rasa kepuasan yang lebih tinggi.

KKK also admits the responsibility is heavier as the hope of whole team is on them but it has high satisfaction level.


Carta pencapaian Kien Keat pada Piala Thomas bermula dengan kemaraan ke suku akhir, empat tahun lalu, sebelum kecundang kepada tuan rumah, Indonesia. Dua tahun lalu, dia merasai aksi sehingga separuh akhir apabila Malaysia ditumpaskan Denmark.

KKK was in QF 4 years ago bf losing to home team (Indonesia). 2 years ago, he saw action till Semi F when Msia lost to Denmark.


Apakah penyudahan kali ini? Sudah pasti harapan Kien Keat ialah untuk merasai keghairahan aksi dan kehangatan sokongan apabila membantu skuad negara sekurang-kurangnya layak ke perlawanan akhir di Istora Senayan.


“Saya sebenarnya tidak kisah siapa jadi rakan seganding, kerana apa yang penting ialah memastikan misi memungut mata untuk pasukan negara mampu ditunaikan.

"I dont mind who is my partner, what is important to make sure the mission of getting a point for team is able to be achieved."


“Malah ketika ini, saya gembira kerana tiada masalah daripada segi kombinasi dan persefahaman di antara saya dan Boon Heong. Saya akui bahawa saya memang lebih bersemangat menanti perlawanan nanti,” katanya.

"Now I am happy there are no problems in terms of combination & communication between myself & TBH. I am more fired up awaiting the matches.

Kien Keat juga turut mengalu-alukan kemungkinan jurulatih, Rexy Mainaky memecahkan gandingan sedia ada dengan pemain dipasangkan bersama rakan berbeza atas nama aturan strategi.

KKK also lauds the possibility of coach Rexy breaking up the pairs to form partnership with other partners for strategy purpose.

“Kita tidak biasa melakukannya kerana lebih percayakan kepada kemampuan beregu sedia ada. Tetapi jika itulah yang jadi pilihan, saya percaya akan mampu bersedia untuk menyesuaikan diri,” katanya.

"We are not used to doing it cos trust more the capability of regular partner. But if that's the choice, I believe I'm able to adapt."

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 3, 2008

Skipper Wong praying for injury-free squad for Finals

By RAJES PAUL
PORT DICKSON: Skipper Wong Choong Hann is on a wing and a prayer. He’s hoping for an injury-free journey for Malaysia as they bid to end a 16-year wait for the coveted Thomas Cup.

Under Choong Hann’s tenure as team captain since the 2004 Finals, Malaysia’s campaign had always been marred by injuries.

Thus, his hope that this will not be the case again at the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/3/sports/s_62spree.jpg Shopping spree!: Malaysian Thomas Cuppers (from left) Koo Kien Keat, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Tan Boon Heong and Lee Chong Wei buying some snacks during their team-building camp in Port Dickson Friday.


At the 2004 Finals in Jakarta, Chan Chong Ming suffered a shoulder injury.
Two years ago, Choong Hann himself had to be flown home after rupturing his Achilles tendon during the quarter-final tie against South Korea.

In fact, at the 2002 Finals in Guangzhou, when Choong Hann played first singles, Malaysia could not field Mohd Hafiz Hashim in the final against Indonesia after he picked up a foot injury during the semi-final stage.

“One of my wishes this time is for our players to stay free from injuries,” said Choong Hann after checking into the Bayu Beach Resort here for their motivation camp yesterday.

The team-building camp, meant for both the Thomas and Uber Cup squads, was officiated by National Sports Council (NSC) director of athletes training division Ahmad Shapawi Ismail.

Choong Hann said the three-day camp would be ideal to ignite the fire within the players to achieve glory in Jakarta.

“I am sure that this camp will be a strong build-up towards the Finals.
“It will help us to understand one another. It will also help bridge the gap between the juniors and seniors in the team,” he said.

“This camp will give the seniors the opportunity to tell the first-timers what to expected at the Finals in a more relaxed manner. There is no badminton ... just some fun activities. It also breaks the monotony of regimented training at Bukit Jalil.”

On Malaysia’s chances at the Finals, he said: “Everyone is fired up for the Finals. We will be on the right track to achieve good results if everyone can keep up this momentum until the Finals. We must always have a burning desire to win.

“Personally, I have been with the team that finished runners-up twice (1998 in Hong Kong and 2002 in Guangzhou). This is my last Finals and I hope to win it.”

Choong Hann, who just confirmed his place for his third Olympic Games a day ago, hoped that a new batch of players would take over soon.

“This is my sixth Thomas Cup outing and I will also be going for my third Olympics. But after this, I hope that I would not be needed anymore. I think the time has come for younger players to take over.”

Besides Choong Hann, the others in the men’s team are Lee Chong Wei, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/3/sports/21143496.asp&sec=sports

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/3/sports/21138336.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 3, 2008

Fairuzizuan out to make a point in debut

KUALA LUMPUR: National doubles shuttler Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari was demoralised after failing to make the Thomas Cup team two years ago.
But he never gave up chasing his dream. And his perseverance has finally paid off.

Come May 11, he aims to prove a point when he makes his debut appearance in the Thomas Cup Finals as the country’s third pair with Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.

The other two pairs for the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta, are Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah and Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong.

“It was a big blow to my morale when I was sidelined two years ago. Luckily, I did not take any drastic actions like quitting the team, and instead went the extra mile to seal my place in this premier team event this time,” said Fairuzizuan.

“Fairuzizuan acknowledged that he would not underestimate his opponents, especially after a painful lesson during the Thomas Cup qualifier in Vietnam in February.

South Korea fielded Park Sung-hwan-Hwang Ji-man, who are not their strongest combination, as the second pair. Fairuzizuan took them lightly and he and his partner, Zakry, lost to the Koreans.

“I was over-confident. I thought we were the better pair and I let it get to my head. At the Finals, I will treat everyone equally,” promised Fairuzizuan.
“Zakry and I do not know how many matches we will get to play. But we will be ready.”

http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/3/sports/s_62spree.jpg
its nice to see that they are having some fun in the 3days camp at PD now:)
haha

Badminton: Top singles player Chong Wei misses mentor Misbun at camp

By RAJES PAUL

PORT DICKSON: Absence, they say, makes the heart grow fonder.
And that aptly describes how Lee Chong Wei is feeling at the moment.
The absence of national singles coach Misbun Sidek from the Thomas-Uber Cup team-building camp here has left Chong Wei feeling a little down.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/4/sports/s_56waterpolo.jpg Different game: Malaysia’s Thomas and Uber Cuppers enjoying a game of waterpolo during their team-building camp in Port Dickson yesterday.
Misbun had to skip the three-day programme to care for his sick wife.
Chong Wei, however, has been drawing inspiration by recalling coach Misbun’s words of encouragement to him as he gears up for the Finals, which will be held in Jakarta from May 11-18.
“There is no place I would rather my coach be right now than by his wife’s side,” Chong Wei said after some fun activities in the pool at the Bayu Beach Resort here yesterday.
“He has been downcast over the last few days but he has still given his best for me and the other players during training (at Bukit Jalil).
“He may not be here but I am taking all his advice to heart. Lately, he has been focusing on me a lot, drumming a few things into my head, like 'Wei, watch what you eat’, ‘sleep early’ and ‘stay focused on the mission ahead’.”
In fact, Chong Wei now appreciates the role played by Misbun in charting his progress into a world-class player.
“Misbun is more than a coach to me. He is like a father to me. One way for me to repay him for all his sacrifices will be to do well in the two major tournaments this year – the Thomas Cup Finals and the Beijing Olympic Games in August,” said Chong Wei.
“Over the years, I have learnt to respect him more and more. I used to dread Thursdays because of his punishing physical trainings (at the Bukit Jalil track). But after a while, I started looking forward to it.
“He has been there for me when my badminton career was at its lowest ebb.
“And I want to be there for him now. I hope everything works out well for Misbun and that he will be back – without anything to worry about ahead of next week’s Finals.”
On his role as the first singles in the Finals, the 26-year-old Chong Wei is hoping to perform better than his previous outing in Japan in 2006.
Then, Chong Wei played as the first singles but failed to get the better of Peter Gade-Christensen in the semi-final tie against Denmark. Malaysia eventually lost 2-3.
“I have improved. I should be able to handle the pressure as the first singles better now. This time, I hope to keep a clean record by winning all my matches,” he said.
For the record, Malaysia last won the Thomas Cup in 1992.

Debutant Julia out to make an impact in Jakarta

PORT DICKSON: Malaysia will be in unfamiliar territory when they face Denmark in a Group C tie of the Uber Cup Finals in Jakarta from May 11-18.
And national number two Julia Wong said that would make the matches against the Danes an interesting affair.
Except for their top singles player Tine Rasmussen and their top doubles pair of Lena Frier Kristiansen-Kamilla Juhl, the rest of the Danish shuttlers will be facing the Malaysians for the first time.
The others in the Danish team are Camilla Sorensen Nanna Brosolat Jensen, Line Kruse, Mie Schjott Kristensen-Christina Pedersen and Marie Ropke-Helle Nielsen.
The others in the Malaysian team are Wong Mew Choo, Lydia Cheah, Tee Jing Yee, Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty, Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin and Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong.
Julia will probably take on Sorensen at second singles.
“Denmark have several new faces and we are also fielding many first timers. I have heard of Camilla but I don’t even know how she looks like. It is not easy to play against someone when you do not know her strength or weaknesses,” said Julia.
“But I guess Camillawill also face the same problem. Hopefully, I can get the better of her,” said Julia.
The other team with Malaysia and Denmark in Group C are New Zealand.
Malaysia have to emerge as the Group C champions to have a better chance of making it to the semi-finals for the very first time.
If they top the group, they are likely to play Germany in the quarter-finals. A win against the Germans is then likely to pit them against second seeds Japan.
But if they lose to Denmark in the group, they are expected to take on third seeds South Korea in the last eight.
Julia said that she was happy to feature in the Finals after missing the boat four years ago due to a shoulder injury. Malaysia qualified on merit for the first time at the 2004 Finals in Jakarta and crashed out in the quarter-finals.
“It is everyone’s dream to feature in the Finals. Hopefully, it will be a memorable debut for me. I hope to win all my matches as the second singles,” she said.

NST

4 May

Misbun puts nation first


2008/05/04

DESPITE his wife's illness, national singles coach Misbun Sidek will put the country's needs first by travelling with the team for the Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18. Misbun's wife Latifah Mohd is suffering from double kidney failure and has been on a dialysis machine for quite a while.

National chief coach Yap Kim Hock, who described Latifah's condition as serious, said Misbun is making arrangements to ensure she gets proper treatment when he's in Jakarta.

Misbun did not report for the ongoing Malaysian Thomas-Uber Cup Finals team building and motivational camp in Port Dickson which started on Friday.

"He has said that he will travel to Jakarta to guide Lee Chong Wei, Hafiz Hashim and Wong Mew Choo for the event," said Kim Hock in Port Dickson yesterday.

"If everything goes well, he may even train his charges on Monday in Bukit Jalil."

Meanwhile, Chong Wei hopes Misbun will be able to guide him in Jakarta.

"It's fine if he's not here (Port Dickson) but I will need him in Jakarta as he is a great coach and motivator when I'm on court.

"He (Misbun) is like family to me and I hope his wife will be fine." -- AJITPAL SINGH

NST

4 May

'Strong' Malaysia can beat anybody

By Ajitpal Singhajitpal

2008/05/04

WORLD No 2 Lee Chong Wei believes the Thomas Cup team are the strongest in recent years and ready to beat any top team in Jakarta on May 11-18. However, he warned that a loss in the group stage would affect the confidence of the shuttlers.

"If we want to become champions, we should not avoid facing tough opponents. We cannot afford to take any matches easy just to meet favoured opponents in the later stages, " said Chong Wei at the Thomas Cup team building and motivation camp in Port Dickson yesterday.

He was commenting on the possibility of Malaysia taking South Korea lightly in the group stage in order to avoid China in the semi-finals.

The team are made up of the same shuttlers who featured in the 2006 Thomas Cup in Tokyo except for Arif Latif and doubles Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari, who are all making their debuts.

Chong Weialso believes Wong Choong Hann and doubles pair Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah will be great motivators for their teammates in Jakarta.

"Since it's their final appearances in the event, the trio will give their 100 per cent and this will motivate others in the team to give their best.

"It will also be a great parting gift for the trio," he said.

On the team's unity, Chong Wei said the shuttlers are bonding well.

"The current team building and motivational camp is really helping in getting the squad closer. We did not have such a camp in our preparation for the previous edition and I believe it will be a plus point for the squad," said Chong Wei.

On whether he felt any early pressure playing as first singles for the country, he said the pressure will always be there.

"I'm not going to repeat my Tokyo mistakes which led to the team's loss to Denmark in the semi-final. I've learnt my lesson," he said.

For the record, it will be Chong Wei's third Thomas Cup Finals. He made his debut in the Jakarta 2004 edition as a reserve and played first singles in Tokyo.

Chong Wei has a good record in the Thomas Cup Finals, losing only once in the total of five matches played.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/Sport/2230835/Article/pppull_index_html

Also on Misbun's wife's kidney failure :
http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Sunday/Sukan/20080504101807/Article/index_html

Intv with LCW, similar to NST one :
http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Sunday/Sukan/20080504100838/Article/

Interview with Lim Pek Siah :
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0504&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Sukan&pg=su_05.htm
As announced in the interview with English press, Lim will retire after Uber Cup. The oldest member of Uber Cup team, she hasnt decide what to do next but hopes to leave with achieving best results for the country in Uber Cup, i.e. reaching Semi F.

On combination with Ng Hui Lin, said although Hui Lin is 9 years younger than her, Hui Lin is very talented & is World Junior Champ for XD. Their combination is getting solid since they started training together earlier, before the centralized training. Lim is confident they will form solid pair, hopes to win points for Msia.

Interview with KKK, for KKK's die hard fans :
...
Kien Keat tidak sabar beraksi - KKK can wait to see action
...
you meant:

Kien Keat tidak sabar beraksi - "KKK can't wait to see action"..;)

Btw, i like their idea of a team building and motivational mini-camp. At the very least it'll build up the teams' camaraderie. We shall see if it'll produce anything significant, come next week:cool:

Btw, best wishes for coach Misbun's wife treatment & recovery!:cool:

Fired-up doubles ace bids for perfect outing

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: The Thomas Cup badminton championships always bring out the best in Koo Kien Keat.
The doubles ace will be making his third appearance in the Finals in Jakarta, beginning on Sunday. Although he will be partnering Tan Boon Heong for the first time in the premier team event, Kien Keat wants to make it a memorable outing by keeping an unbeaten run for the first time.
He was impressive in the last two Finals. In 2004, Kien Keat teamed up with Chew Choon Eng and the duo almost pulled the rug from under Indonesians Flandi Limpele-Eng Hian in the second doubles match of the quarter-final tie.
The duo failed to keep Malaysia alive in the Finals but the cool Kien Keat won praises for his outstanding play.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/5/sports/s_pg66keat.jpg Confident: Koo Kien Keat feels that Malaysia have a balanced team to do well in the Thomas Cup.
In Japan two years ago, Kien Keat was remembered for putting up a gigantic fight with partner Chan Chong Ming in the first doubles match of the semi-final tie against Danish veterans Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen.
Kien Keat-Chong Ming won the match 21-17, 30-28, 21-6 but Malaysia were eventually beaten 2-3 by the Danes.
The 23-year-old Kien Keat said that it was always a thrill to play in the Finals.
“I just get fired up more when it comes to the Thomas Cup. I do not like the feeling of letting my team-mates down and I go the extra mile,” he said.
“I enjoyed the last two Finals but it was a pity that we could not go all the way to win the Cup. In fact, I have yet to win all my matches in a Finals. This time, I will be out to keep a clean sheet with Boon Heong.
Kien Keat-Boon Heong are the second ranked pair in the team behind veterans Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah but felt that it suited them fine. The other pair in the team are Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.
“We are the second pair and it has eased some of the pressure off our shoulders,” said Kien Keat.
“If Boon Heong and I can continue to show progress (following their improved performances in the Asian Championships last month) we will have a shot at winning all our matches.”
In ties against the top contenders for the Cup, Kien Keat-Boon Heong could be up against Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-man (South Korea); Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan or Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto (Indonesia); Eriksen-Lundgaard Hansen or Mathias Boe-Carsten Morgensen (Denmark); Xie Zhongbo-Guo Zhengdong (China).
“In comparison, we can take on all these players. In the past, we used to struggle against lower ranked pair. But this is the Thomas Cup Finals and I am confident that we will give them a run for their money,” said Kien Keat.
Kien Keat feels that Malaysia have a balanced team in a bid to regain the Cup they last won in 1992 in Kuala Lumpur. The singles players in the team are Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Hafiz Hashim and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.
“We had to rely on Chong Wei in the previous Finals. This time, both Hafiz and Choong Hann did well at the ABC and they have injected a lot of confidence in the team,” said Kien Keat.
Yesterday, the shuttlers for the Thomas Cup and also the Uber Cup Finals returned to Kuala Lumpur after completing a three-day team-building camp in Port Dickson.

Pei Tty wants a place in the semis

KUALA LUMPUR: For doubles shuttler Wong Pei Tty, Jakarta brings good memories as far as the Uber Cup is concerned.
But she is looking at Malaysia making their presence felt this time.
Pei Tty is only one of three women in the team playing in another Finals in Jakarta. The others are her partner, Chin Eei Hui, and national number one women's singles Wong Mew Choo. They were in the team when Malaysia qualified for the Finals on merit for the very first time in 2004.
Joining the trio to Jakarta this time are Julia Wong, Lydia Cheah, Tee Jing Yee and the doubles pairs of Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin and Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong.
“The first time (in 2004), we were simply excited over qualifying for the Finals. But after four years, just playing in the Finals again does not give us satisfaction anymore,” said Pei Tty, who failed to help the team make it to the last Finals in Japan two years ago.
“The players have improved and naturally, we want to give our opponents a run for their money. It will be great to go one step better than the quarter-finals but it is a tough task.”
Pei Tty said that Denmark, in the same group as Malaysia and New Zealand, were still the fancied team despite their many newcomers.
“Although they have new players, the Danes still emerged as the European champions (last month). They will be a hard team to beat but I hope we will be able to do it.”
Malaysia have to win the group if they hope to go far in the tournament. As group winners, they are likely to face Germany in the quarter-finals and victory would probably give them a semi-final tie against second seeds Japan.
But if they lose to Denmark and finish as they group runners-up, they have to play an additional tie to qualify for the quarter-finals against third seeds South Korea.

NST

5 May

Kim Hock: Shuttlers want to end drought


2008/05/05

NATIONAL chief coach Yap Kim Hock has once again stressed that the players are determined to end the 16-year Thomas Cup drought and return from Jakarta with the coveted trophy "We are focused on winning the event," said Kim Hock after the closing ceremony of the Thomas-Uber Cup Finals team building and motivation camp in Port Dickson yesterday.

"I'm aware that a semi-final target has been set but I want the shuttlers to put in that extra mile and win the title. I have told the shuttlers to avoid being mere spectators after the semi-finals."

The coach believes that Malaysia can go far in the Thomas Cup based on his assessment of them after more than one week of centralised training and the report from the team building and motivation camp.

He said the shuttlers have shown positive signs and have been making tremendous progress.

"Fitness-wise, everyone is more than 100 per cent focused on the tournament. The joint-training conducted over a week has also given the shuttlers a chance to spar with each other and the coaches the opportunity to exchange ideas.

"The consultant's report is also overwhelming as based on it, the shuttlers have grown closer and are playing as a single unit now. It is a good sign and the players are aware of their responsibilities at the Thomas Cup."

Kim Hock said the next stage of training before leaving for Jakarta on Thursday will be more on pushing the shuttlers harder on court.

"It is time for them to fine-tune their skills and overall game. As far as I'm concerned, we, the coaches, have done our jobs and it's time for the players to work harder," said Kim Hock, who added that the shuttlers will also continue with their team building programme conducted by the National Sports Council (NSC).

"The programme will be held during training to keep the shuttlers' unity in check before they leave for Jakarta," he added.

The Thomas-Uber Cup Finals start on Sunday. -- AJITPAL SINGH

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/Sport/2231572/Article/pppull_index_html

Women to face the men in mock-up matches

KUALA LUMPUR: The Uber Cup squad will play against male players in a tie over four singles and three doubles matches at the Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil tomorrow.
National chief coach Yap Kim Hock said: “This is part of our build-up for the Finals in Jakarta. We decided to use those from our men's back-up squad and our sparring players to take on the women's players.
“Some of the women's singles players will be up against doubles players.
“We hope that this will make the matches more competitive.”
Kim Hock added the Thomas Cup squad would also play a tie in the same format but the opponents for the doubles matches had not been finalised.
“It is just an exercise for the Thomas-Uber Cuppers to work together and support each other as a team.”
n THOMAS CUP
First singles: Lee Chong Wei vs Mohd Roslin Hashim.
Second singles: Wong Choong Hann vs Kuan Beng Hong.
Third singles: Mohd Hafiz Hashim vs Yeoh Kay Bin.
Fourth singles: Mohd Arif Abdul Latif vs Tan Chun Seang.
* Doubles matches to be decided
n UBER CUP
First singles: Wong Mew Choo vs Khoo Chung Chiat.
Second singles: Julia Wong vs Chan Peng Soon.
Third singles: Lydia Cheah vs Guru (Nusa Mahsuri).
Fourth singles: Tee Jing Yee vs Koman Fandi.
First doubles: Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty vs Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong.
Second doubles: Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin vs Hong Chieng Hun-James Chua.
Third doubles: Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong vs Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran.

Badminton: Malaysia's fate depends on Mew Choo

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: The burden is heavy on the shoulders of national number one Wong Mew Choo to make a difference for Malaysia in the Uber Cup Finals.
Much is expected from her to win the first point for the team in every tie and the high expectations could make or break Mew Choo in Jakarta.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/6/sports/s_60mewchoo.jpg Heavy burden: Wong Mew Choo must deliver in every tie during next week’s Uber Cup Finals in Jakarta.
The others in the team are Julia Wong, Lydia Cheah, Tee Jing Yee and the doubles pairs of Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty, Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin and Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong.
National singles coach Misbun Sidek said that Mew Choo's performances could set the tone for the team's performance in the Finals.
“The load is heavy on Mew Choo and she is feeling it. If we compare her with other players in the team, she has the more realistic chance to win her matches,” he said.
Mew Choo beat several top Chinese players en route to winning the China Open last year and finishing as the runner-up in the Malaysian Open this year.
“But Mew Choo can crack under pressure. She is still trying to figure out how she was able to win the China Open. I am helping her to find that winning formula again,” said Misbun.
“I hope that Julia and the other singles players can support Mew Choo. Julia is a fighter and we hope that she will show this character in her game at the Finals.”
Misbun said that the presence of seasoned campaigner Pek Siah, who had been appointed as the team captain, had added depth to the team in the women's doubles.
Pek Siah and her 17-year-old partner, Hui Lin, did well for Malaysia in the Uber Cup qualifiers in Vietnam in February.
“Overall, I think, the women have a fighting chance against some of the teams like Denmark and Germany. But China will still be the overwhelming favourites to retain the title,” said Misbun.
Malaysia are in Group B with Denmark and New Zealand. They will have a more manageable path if they finish as group champions. That would set them on the road for ties against probably Germany and Japan in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively.
“If they lose to Denmark (and take another tie to reach the quarter-finals), they may have to meet South Korea. Denmark will certainly also want to avoid South Korea and they will be counting on their first singles Tine (Rasmussen),” said Misbun.
“Like Mew Choo, this Dane too has gained renewed respect for her ability to beat top Chinese players. Both will be counted on to make a difference in the group tie.”
China have opted to leave out veteran Zhang Ning but they are still good enough to win the Uber Cup for a record 11th time. Only two teams are seen to be able to ruffle their feathers and they are second seeds Japan and third seeds South Korea.
Malaysia will be playing in the Finals on merit for only the second time. The last time was for the 2004 Finals, also in Jakarta.

First to bed, first to rise for Chong Wei

KUALA LUMPUR: For this one week, Lee Chong Wei has to do things first. He arrives at the training hall early, sleeps early and is even the first among the lot to have his meals.
And national singles coach Misbun Sidek hopes that these routines will help Chong Wei to get used to his position as the player to lead the team out for ties in the Thomas Cup Finals, which begin on Sunday in Jakarta.
It is the second time in the series that Chong Wei will play at first singles for Malaysia.
In the last Finals in Japan in 2006, Chong Wei found the pressure too hot to handle in the semi-final tie against Denmark. He lost to Peter Gade-Christensen and Malaysia went on to bow out 2-3.
“It is not easy to play as the first singles. The pressure and expectation can be overwhelming. All kinds of thoughts play in one’s mind. I have been in this situation before,” said Misbun, who featured as a player for Malaysia between 1979 and 1988.
“I have played as the first, second and third singles player. The toughest for me is playing at the first. I did not like the feeling of disappointing my team-mates.
“I know Chong Wei can get distracted sometimes. But I hope he will stay focused as the first singles player. By practising to be the first in everything, he will learn not to let anything distract him easily.”
Chong Wei’s counterparts as the first rank player in teams of the other top contenders are Park Sung-hwan (South Korea), Sony Dwi Kuncoro (Indonesia), Kenneth Jonassen (Denmark) and Lin Dan (China).
“Their standards are about the same with Lin Dan having a slight edge.
“But if Chong Wei is distracted, he gives his opponents the room to take him on easily,” said Misbun.
Besides Chong Wei, the other men's singles in the Malaysian team are Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Hafiz Hashim and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.

Koreans bank on doubles power

By LOGANATH VELLOO

PENANG: After a lapse of four years, South Korea have regained their supremacy in the doubles department. And this augurs well for their Thomas Cup aspirations.
The legendary Park Joo-bong-Kim Moon-soo ruled the roost in the 90s. Ha Tae-kwon-Kim Dong-moon and Lee Dong-soo-Yoo Yong-sung continued the legacy at the turn of the century and bagged the 2004 Athens Olympics gold and silver medals respectively.
The Koreans could not have asked for a better timing for the meteoric rise of Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae, winners of the All-England, Swiss Open and Asian Championships titles this year.
Their second combination, Hwang Ji-man-Lee Jae-jin, who were the runners-up at the All-England, are also consistently producing good results.
To top it off, South Korea's top singles player Park Sung-hwan and second ranked Lee Hyun-il also won titles at the Asian Championships and Korean Open respectively.
Suddenly, the Koreans will be taking stronger shots at making it to their first-ever Thomas Cup final.
The good news for Malaysia is that they are drawn in the same group as the Koreans and would not meet again unless both qualify for the final.
Should Malaysia and South Korea field their best line-up in a Group B tie on Monday at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta, it would be a cracker if both sides decide not to pull punches.
As always, Lee Chong Wei faces the important task of getting Malaysia off to a winning start against Sung-hwan.
A point in the opening match is vital to settle the nerves for the Malaysian camp.
With Mohd Hafiz Hashim having a good record against Shon Seung-mo and able to deliver in the third singles, a point from either doubles would allow Malaysia to nick a victory.
Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong have better odds of beating Ji-man-Jae-jin in the second doubles than Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah have against Jae-sung-Yong-dae.
But national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky could tinker with the Malaysian doubles line-up for the tie against the Koreans.
“The Koreans only registered two doubles pairs while we have three and can have more options.
“If I feel that Tan Fook-Wan Wah could not match Jae-sung-Yong-dae, I can always field Kien Keat-Boon Heong as the the first doubles,” said Rexy.
“Mohd Fairuzizuan (Tazari)-Mohd Zakry (Latif) can then play in the second doubles and they have a fighting chance against Ji-man-Jae-jin. It can be one of Malaysia's options to deal with the Korean strength in the doubles.”
The second singles match between experienced hands Hyun-il and Wong Choong Hann will see the Korean having a slight edge with consistency in recent tournaments.
However, there is a possibility of Malaysia and South Korea holding back in this group clash.
With both expected to beat England, the tie will decide the group winners. Defeat by the Koreans might not be a bad thing for Malaysia.
This is because the group winners have an easier meeting against either Japan or New Zealand in the quarter-finals but defending champions and mighty China await them in the semi-finals.
The group runners-up are likely to advance to a quarter-final tie against Indonesia with Denmark in the same half of the draw.
Avoiding China on the path to the final could persuade both Malaysia and South Korea to take it easy in the group clash.
The Koreans experimented on the strategy, fielding scratch partnerships in their 2-3 defeat by Malaysia in the Asian Zone qualifiers in February.
The last time the two countries met in the Thomas Cup was in the 2006 quarter-finals in Tokyo. Malaysia won 3-2 with Hafiz clinching the winning point, beating Jang Young-soo 21-17, 21-10 in the decisive third singles.
The quarter-final was also best remembered for Choong Hann's career-threatening Achilles tendon rupture in his second singles match against Sung-hwan.

Another TUC news taken from ANTARA News Agency (English version) :

05/06/08 09:51
National badminton squad of New Zealand arrive in Jakarta


Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The national badminton squad of New Zealand was the first team to arrive here on Monday to take part in the final round of the Thomas and Uber Cup on May 11-18.

"Yes, the team arrived today," a spokesperson of the event, Linda Wahyudi said on Monday.

The team is now staying at a hotel in West Jakarta.

New Zealand`s six-member men team has represented the Oceania Zone for three times in the final round of the Thomas Cup after that in Jakarta (2004) and in Tokyo and Sendai of Japan (2006).

While for New Zealand`s seven-member women team, their participation in the final round of the Uber Cup will be for the second.

Following are list of names of the men and women squad:

Men: John Moody, Joe Wu, Kevin Dennerly, Craig Cooper, Henry Tam, Nathan Hannam.
Women: Rachel Hindley, Michelle Chan, Jessica Jonggowisastro, Danielle Barry, Emma Rodgers, Renee Flavell, Donna Cranston.

Meanwhile, the 20-member Indonesian team for the event, she added, had also moved to the Sultan Hotel, the official hotel for Thomas and Uber Cup.

Some 12 top national teams from the five continents for each of the Thomas and Uber Cup competitions ? (4 from Asia, 3 from Europe and one form Oceania, Africa and Pan-America ? with the remaining places going to the defending Champions, China in both Thomas & Uber Cups 2005 and the host nation ? Indonesia will take part in the event. (*)

Copyright © 2008

NST

6 May 2008

Mew Choo worried over preparation

By Ajitpal Singh

2008/05/06

WONG Mew Choo is only too aware of the importance of playing the first singles in the Uber Cup Finals but fears inadequate preparations and a recurring knee injury could affect her performance in Jakarta on May 11-18. Mew Choo, the World No 10, claims that her training has not been going smoothly since switching from Wong Tat Meng to Misbun Sidek, both national singles coaches, last month.

"Misbun has been helpful in perfecting my skills and overall game but I need to spend more time with him to polish my game further," said Mew Choo, 25, at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Bukit Jalil, yesterday.

"The root of my problem is joint training as there are too many programmes and functions outside of training. I'm not saying joint training is not good but other activities off the court should be toned down.

"I have no choice but to go an extra mile in whatever training time I have left and, hopefully, it will be adequate to perfect my game."

This will be Mew Choo's second outing in the Uber Cup as the first singles. She made her Uber Cup debut in 2004, also in Jakarta, where she helped the team reach the last eight.

On her nagging right knee injury, Mew Choo said it was hampering her success in the international arena.

"I can't push too hard or execute certain movements when on court as it aggravates my knee further. However, I'm ready to play through the pain barrier to ensure success in the Uber Cup."

Mew Choo believes that Malaysia, who are drawn in Group Y with Denmark and New Zealand, are good enough to reach the semi-finals.

"We should beat Denmark to top the group as they have only one good shuttler in Tine Rasmussen. I may lose to her, but my teammates should win their matches.

"If we win the group, the semi-final target is reachable as we will likely play Germany in the last eight." Mew Choo's best career achievement to date was winning last year's China Open where she pulled off the extraordinary feat of beating all the top women shuttlers from China -- Zhu Lin, Zhang Ning and World No 1 Xie Xingfang -- en route to winning her first big title.

However, she has had little success since and her best performance so far this season was a semi-final appearance in the Malaysia Open last January.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2232378/Article/pppull_index_html

A write-up on Misbun's wife's kidney failure & Misbun's sacrifices for badminton :
http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Tuesday/Sukan/20080506071750/Article/print_html

It states there Misbun always put country 1st. Never talked abt his wife's kidney prob until his absence at team building camp was noticed. Then only the story came out. Misbun's wife's dialysis treatment is RM250 per treatment, 3 times a week.

When Misbun's daughter died in accident in 1996, 3 weeks bf OG, he put it aside his grief, to guide his players during 1996 OG.
The reporter hopes that the Althlete's Welfare Dept will look into ways to assist Misbun in his wife's medical bills.

n THOMAS CUP
First singles: Lee Chong Wei vs Mohd Roslin Hashim.
Second singles: Wong Choong Hann vs Kuan Beng Hong.
Third singles: Mohd Hafiz Hashim vs Yeoh Kay Bin.
Fourth singles: Mohd Arif Abdul Latif vs Tan Chun Seang.
* Doubles matches to be decided
n UBER CUP
First singles: Wong Mew Choo vs Khoo Chung Chiat.
Second singles: Julia Wong vs Chan Peng Soon.
Third singles: Lydia Cheah vs Guru (Nusa Mahsuri).
Fourth singles: Tee Jing Yee vs Koman Fandi.
First doubles: Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty vs Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong.
Second doubles: Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin vs Hong Chieng Hun-James Chua.
Third doubles: Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong vs Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran.
I hopes the doubles pair up would be like this :
Choong Tan Fook/Koo Kien Keat vs Chan Chong Ming/Chew Choon Eng
Fairuz/tan Boon Heong vs Gan Teik Chai/Lin woon Fui
Zakry/Lee Wan Wah vs Tan Bin Shen/Ong Soon Hock;)

I hopes the doubles pair up would be like this :
Choong Tan Fook/Koo Kien Keat vs Chan Chong Ming/Chew Choon Eng
Fairuz/tan Boon Heong vs Gan Teik Chai/Lin woon Fui
Zakry/Lee Wan Wah vs Tan Bin Shen/Ong Soon Hock;)


Huh??:confused:
Why play around with the pairing? I think yr line up of the sparring team looks ok, just that MAS team shud also play at full strength to gauge their readiness and fighting spirit.

BTW where is it being played and will the public be admitted to watch ? They shud admit the public to create the stadium atmosphere altho it wud be no where near like Senayan esp when INA is playing.

BTW where is it being played and will the public be admitted to watch ? They shud admit the public to create the stadium atmosphere altho it wud be no where near like Senayan esp when INA is playing.

Sorry Mark, Yap KH said it's closed to the public, not like the one 2 yrs ago. It's for coaches to gauge the readiness of players & time is short, so they prefer it closed this time.

And according to the list in NST, the MD pairing would be the usual pairing against CCE/CCM, TBS/Ong SH, Gan TC/Lin WF.

Thomas and Uber Cup teams fired up by Rosmah’s challenges

PUTRAJAYA: The Thomas and Uber Cup squads enjoyed a good breakfast and warm fellowship at the scenic residence of the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in Putrajaya yesterday.
But more than the food, the challenges thrown by Najib’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, who is also the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) patron, have whetted the appetite of the players to do well at the Finals in Jakarta.
And Thomas Cup team skipper Wong Choong Hann said that they were all fired up to stand up to Rosmah's challenges.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/7/sports/s_p66Rosmah.jpg
Rosmah asked the players to keep their words over two things – for the Thomas Cup team to end a 16-year title drought and for both teams to be strong mentally to handle the pressure that comes with playing in the premier world team championships.
“I want to wish you well as you leave for Jakarta for the challenges ahead. The most important thing is too bring back the Thomas Cup ... we have been waiting for so long. Can you promise to deliver that?” she asked to thunderous applause and shouts of “Boleh” from the players.
“Please do not disappoint me like you have disappointed Datuk Nadzmi (Mohd Salleh, the BAM president) previously. Do not just say 'boleh' but make sure you prove it.”
Despite taking a break from their rigorous morning training session, Choong Hann said that it was an honour for the players to be at Rosmah's residence.
“We feel special. We (the players) pledge to do our best to honour the promises that we have given to our patron. I can give an assurance that all of us are hungry to win,” he said.
“So far, our preparation has been smooth. We are more united after the team-building camp (in Port Dickson).”

Singles fire China bid

By RAJES PAUL

PETALING JAYA: The men's singles will be the pride of China in the Thomas Cup Finals.
They have three Olympians in their side – Lin Dan, Bao Chunlai and Chen Jin. And China are certainly the team to beat for the top contenders – Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea and Denmark – in the Final, which begin on Sunday in Jakarta.
Although their men's doubles department has improved, China's hopes of winning the Cup for the seventh time hinge heavily on the strength of their singles players.
Based on current rankings, Lin Dan, Chunlai and Chen Jin are the favourites and the trios are determined to put China on the right track as far as their preparations for the Olympic Games in Beijing are concerned.
Chen Yu is their reserve men's singles player but he is unlikely to be fielded in crucial ties.
China have named three pairs – Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng, Guo Zhengdong-Xie Zhongbo and He Hanbin-Shen Ye. But only the former world champions and All-England winners Cai Yun-Haifeng have the better shots at contributing a point.
Third seeds Malaysia may meet China in the semi-finals if they finish as the winners in Group B, which also has South Korea and England. But if Malaysia end up as group runners-up, they can only meet China in the final. That would require them to eliminate Indonesia in the quarter-finals and Denmark in the semi-finals.
National singles coach Misbun Sidek said that it would be a blow for top seeds and defending champions China if their singles players crumbled in Jakarta.
“It is all a matter of prestige for China in the Finals. They have showed the world their greatness in the men's singles by qualifying a maximum of three players for the Beijing Olympics. They get the chance again to boast of their strength in the singles in the Thomas Cup,” he said.
“China have strong doubles pairs too but we can take them on. It is still an open game as far as the fights in the doubles are concerned. But China are good to win a tie from the singles matches. Probably, the point their rivals can steal is the second singles (against Chunlai).”
At the 2002 Finals in Guangzhou, Chunlai turned out to be China's weak link. He was beaten by Mohd Hafiz Hashim in the second singles and Malaysia went on to win the semi-final tie 3-1.
However, China came back strongly to win the Cup in the last two editions in Jakarta (2004) and Tokyo (2006).
Hafiz will be making his fourth trip to the Finals and his team-mates are Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Arif Abdul Latif, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif.
On paper, Malaysia's chances of beating China are slim but Misbun said that it was not an impossible task.
“It is all about playing a psychological game. Malaysia may be rated lower in world rankings or skills but I believe that team spirit and self-believe could make the difference for,” he said.
“We have to hope for both our doubles to win and get the singles to steal a point. The hope may be on Chong Wei but it will not easy for him against Lin Dan.
“I think that Choong Hann and Hafiz can get the better of their opponents if they really put their hearts into it. They did well in the ABC (Asian Championships) last month and I hope that they have not raised false hopes.”

NST

7 May
Uber Cup playersto take on the men


2008/05/07

THE national Uber Cup team will face their sternest test yet when they take on a selection of men players in a friendly match at Gymnasium Two of the National Sports Council (NSC), Bukit Jalil, today. The men's team, known as Team Tiger, consists of the national back-up squad and sparring players.

National chief coach Yap Kim Hock, however, said he is expecting the Uber Cup team to win the friendly encounter.

"A win against a men's selection team will boost their confidence ahead the Jakarta assignment," said Kim Hock yesterday.

Meanwhile, the national Thomas Cup team, led by Lee Chong Wei, are expected to face a tough time against a Malaysian selection team -- Team Union -- consisting of second stringers from the national team.

Team Union will be led by former World No 1 Roslin Hashim who faces Chong Wei in the first singles today.

THOMAS CUP

Singles: Lee Chong Wei v Roslin Hashim, Wong Choong Hann v Kuan Beng Hong, Hafiz Hashim v Yeoh Kay Bin, Arif Latif v Tan Chun Seang.

Doubles: Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah v Chan Chong Ming-Chew Chun Eng; Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong v Tan Bin Shen-Gan Teik Chai; Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari v Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How.

UBER CUP

Singles: Wong Mew Choo v Khoo Chung Chiat, Julia Wong v Chan Peng Soon, Lydia Cheah v Guru (Nusa Mahsuri), Tee Jing Yi v Koman Fandi.

Doubles: Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui v Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong; Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin v Hong Chieng Hun-James Chua; Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong v Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran.

The Final Lineup today was...
First singles: Lee Chong Wei vs Mohd Roslin Hashim.
Second singles: Wong Choong Hann vs Tan Chun Seang
Third singles: Mohd Hafiz Hashim vs Yeoh Kay Bin.
Fourth singles: Mohd Arif Abdul Latif vs James Chua
Doubles: Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah v Chan Chong Ming-Chew Chun Eng; Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong v Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How.
; Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari v Tan Bin Shen-Gan Teik Chai

n UBER CUP
First singles: Wong Mew Choo vs Khoo Chung Chiat.
Second singles: Julia Wong vs Chan Peng Soon.
Third singles: Lydia Cheah vs Guru (Nusa Mahsuri).
Fourth singles: Tee Jing Yee vs Koman Fandi.
First doubles: Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty vs Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong.
Second doubles: Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin vs Hong Chieng Hun-James Chua.
Third doubles: Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong vs Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran.

NST

7 May

Choong Hann, Pek Siah skippers


2008/05/07

NATIONAL No 2 Wong Choong Hann and women's doubles player Lim Pek Siah will captain the Thomas and Uber Cup teams respectively in the Finals in Jakarta on May 11-18. National chief coach Yap Kim Hock is confident Choong Hann and Pek Siah will carry out their respective roles with distinction in the Indonesian capital.

"Their leadership qualities and friendly approach will ensure smooth transition of information between shuttlers and coaches," said Kim Hock at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

"The BA of Malaysia (BAM) did not pick Choong Hann and Pek Siah to lead the teams as it was the players who nominated them. It proves that they are popular with their peers."

Jakarta will be Choong Hann's second stint as captain for the Malaysian Thomas Cup Finals. He was also the team captain in the 2006 edition in Tokyo, Japan.

Choong Hann, 31, said he was honoured to be appointed captain and will strive to do his best to support the team.

"My responsibilities not only cover offering moral support to shuttlers on court but also off the court," said the World No 14.

"I will act as the team's representative in meetings with coaches and also as an avenue for players to air their grouses to coaches."

Meanwhile, Pek Siah, who made her debut in the 2004 Uber Cup edition in Kuala Lumpur, said she was looking forward to play the captain's role.

"I will try my best to lead the team. As captain, I hope the team will go far in Jakarta," said the 29-year-old.

Choong Hann and Pek Siah will get a chance to test their role as captains when the Thomas and Uber Cup teams play friendly matches against two Malaysian selection teams today at the NSC in Bukit Jalil. -- AJITPAL SINGH

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Sport/2233410/Article/pppull_index_html

The Final Lineup today was...
First singles: Lee Chong Wei vs Mohd Roslin Hashim.
Second singles: Wong Choong Hann vs Tan Chun Seang
Third singles: Mohd Hafiz Hashim vs Yeoh Kay Bin.
Fourth singles: Mohd Arif Abdul Latif vs James Chua
Doubles: Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah v Chan Chong Ming-Chew Chun Eng; Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong v Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How.
; Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari v Tan Bin Shen-Gan Teik Chai

n UBER CUP
First singles: Wong Mew Choo vs Khoo Chung Chiat.
Second singles: Julia Wong vs Chan Peng Soon.
Third singles: Lydia Cheah vs Guru (Nusa Mahsuri).
Fourth singles: Tee Jing Yee vs Koman Fandi.
First doubles: Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty vs Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong.
Second doubles: Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin vs Hong Chieng Hun-James Chua.
Third doubles: Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong vs Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran.
..i realize in the UBER CUP simulation, the men squad won. Just curious, what was the tie's score??..thanks in advance.
Nevermind, i saw Samuel's post in the other thread, which was a near sweep by the men's squad (save the WMC's match).:cool:

http://www-inside-badminton-news-world-sport.blogspot.com/

Peter Gade is playing after all.:D

http://www-inside-badminton-news-world-sport.blogspot.com/

Peter Gade is playing after all.:D

wow first post...welcome to BC forum...nice to see ya...Danish fans here...:cool::p

NST

8 may

Chong Wei, Choong Hann shocked


http://www.nst.com.my/Thursday/Sport/2234380/insidepix1
Wong Choong Hann lost 21-19, 11-21, 16-21 to Tan Chun Siang.

WORLD No 2 Lee Chong Wei and captain Wong Choong Hann suffered shock defeats as the Thomas Cup team struggled to beat a Malaysian selection -- Team Union -- 4-3 in a friendly at the National Sports Council in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
Debutant Arif Latif saved the blushes for the Thomas Cup team when he defeated former national champion James Chua 17-21, 21-11, 21-10 to secure the winning point.

Meanwhile, Wong Mew Choo gave the Uber Cup team their only point as they fell 6-1 to Team Tiger, which consisted men shuttlers.

In the battle between two former World No 1 shuttlers, veteran Roslin Hashim got the better of Chong Wei, winning 21-14, 26-24 for Team Union's first point.

A disappointed Chong Wei refused to speak to reporters on his performance yesterday.
However, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah put the Thomas Cup team back on level terms with a 21-11, 21-18 win over Chan Chong Ming-Chew Chun Eng.

Tan Chun Siang put Team Union ahead again when he defeated Choong Hann 19-21, 21-11, 21-16.

The Thomas Cup team however took a 3-2 lead when Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Hafiz Hashim won the next two matches.

However, Tan Bin Shen-Gan Teik Chai leveled the tie at 3-3 when the duo beat Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari 25-23, 22-20 before Arif secured the winning point for the Thomas Cup team.

National singles coach Misbun Sidek said he was not too worried about yesterday's results as the shuttlers were told not to push themselves.

"We instructed them not to play to the extent of injuring themselves. We only wanted the shuttlers to get a feel of playing in a team event," said Misbun.

RESULTS -- Team Thomas Cup 4 Team Union 3: Lee Chong Wei lost to Roslin Hashim 14-21, 24-26; Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah bt Chan Chong Ming-Chew Chun Eng 21-11, 21-18; Wong Choong Hann lost to Tan Chun Siang 21-19, 11-21, 16-21;

Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong bt Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How 18-21, 21-12, 21-13; Hafiz Hashim bt Yeoh Kay Bin 21-13, 21-13; Zakry Latif-Faizruzizuan Tazari lost to Tan Bin Shen-Gan Teik Chai 23-25, 20-22; Arif Latif bt James Chua 17-21, 21-11, 21-10.

Team Tiger 6 Team Uber Cup 1: Khoo Chung Chiat lost to Wong Mew Choo 12-21, 21-9, 16-21; Chang Hun Pin-Tsen Kah Hong bt Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui 21-10, 21-10; Chan Peng Soon bt Julia Wong 21-18, 14-21, 21-13; Hong Chieng Hun-Lim Chet Wet bt Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin 21-16, 21-18;

Guru bt Lydia Cheah 21-15, 21-13; Ahmad Shah Ipul-K. Yogendran bt Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong 21-18, 21-13; Koman Fandi bt Tee Jing Yi 21-13, 17-21, 21-16.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Sport/2234382/Article/index_html

NST

8 May


NST
Boon Heong injured


2008/05/08
TAN Boon Heong could miss Malaysia's Thomas Cup opener against England on Sunday in Jakarta, after he complained of pain in his left foot during a friendly between the national team and a Malaysian Selection in Bukit Jalil yesterday. Boon Heong will undergo a scan before he leaves for Jakarta tomorrow.

National chief coach Yap Kim Hock said the shuttler will be rested against England if his foot continues to bother him.

"I will only know the extent of his injury after the scan. However, indications are that his injury is not serious," said Kim Hock at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Bukit Jalil yesterday

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Sport/2234382/Article/index_html

LCW lost to uncle Roslin??? :eek: Did LCW use his racket or Olympic Torch to play? :D:p

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 8, 2008


Boon Heong plays down injury scare

KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles shuttler Tan Boon Heong has allayed fears of a recurrence of a heel injury in his preparation for the Thomas Cup Finals.
He was not at his best yesterday, partnering Koo Kien Keat for a match in a simulation tie against Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How, but insisted that it was not due to the pain on his heel. They won the match 18-21, 21-12, 21-13.

Boon Heong-Kien Keat, who are the second ranked pair in the team for the Finals, will be leaving with their team-mates for Jakarta today.

The lanky Boon Heong said that he would give his best for Malaysia in the Finals.

“I was affected by the heel injury (on the left leg) during the ABC (Asian Championships) but it is not a problem now. Sometimes, I get the pain. But no, it is not affecting my game,” he said.

“Today, I just did not play too well. But I should do better. Whether injured or not, the team can be rest assured that I will go all out to give my best in the Finals. I will give my best so that our team’s chances will not be affected because of me.”

Coach Rexy Mainaky said that Boon Heong has had proper treatment for the injury.

“It was treated immediately after the ABC. There is nothing to worry about Boon Heong,” he said.

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 8, 2008

Rexy challenges shuttlers to improve team camaraderie

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: The simulation ties for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup squads at Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil yesterday failed to achieve its objective as far as enhancing team spirit is concerned.

There was a lack of team support for players on court and it left national doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky a little disappointed. But he chose to look on the bright side.

Rexy said that he was glad that the simulation session exposed the player’s weaknesses and he had challenged both the singles and doubles players to further improve on team camaraderie.

“It is easy to talk and say that the players are united but putting it into practice is not easy. And that is what happened today,” said Rexy.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/8/sports/s_pg69heong.jpg No support: Tan Boon Heong (left) and Koo Kien Keat in action during the simulation match against Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How at Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil yesterday. – KAMAL SELLEHUDDIN / The Star

Except for several seniors, including skipper Wong Choong Hann and Lee Wan Wah, who cheered their team-mates on, the other members of the team did not seem to take the proceedings seriously. Some of them showed up again when the ties were almost reaching the end.

What was the purpose of the 4½-hour session if the players did not get the feel of what they were going to expect at the Finals in Jakarta? And to make a mockery of it all, the Badminton Association of Malaysian (BAM) handed RM1,000 to the winning teams.

In the seven-match tie for the men, Lee Chong Wei lost the first match against Mohd Roslin Hashim. Despite the defeat, the team should have supported each other to fight back but this did not happen.

The most apparent show of lack of support was when youngster Mohd Arif Latif played the deciding match against James Chua. There were more taunts from the opponents’ camp for Arif than the support he received from his team-mates.

Only after Rexy urged some the doubles players to rally support that the situation improved. Arif won the match to give his team a 4-3 win.
Rexy admitted that the session could have been better organised.

“The coaches had taken the trouble to hold this because we want to ensure that every angle of the preparation for the players are taken care of,” he said.

“Probably, the players would have showed better support if we had called in the public to watch. In Indonesia, the players get to feel exactly what to expect in the Finals during a simulation session.

“But it was disappointing to see some of our players taking it lightly. This is a practice for them. What they do here will be translated at the Finals.

“I am glad that this session had showed up a weakness. We need to further improve. The players have to support each other, especially when one of their team-mates loses.”

The Uber Cup team played against male players and were beaten 1-6.

http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/8/sports/21183058.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 8, 2008

Malaysia have to deal with Indonesian shuttlers and fans

By LOGANATH VELLOO


PENANG: After defending champions China, Indonesia are rated the next strongest side in the Thomas Cup Finals based on their status as hosts of the championships, which begin on Sunday in Jakarta.

The Indonesians, who failed to win the world men's team championship trophy on home soil in 2004, will be looking to set the record straight this time.

They have named Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Taufik Hidayat, Simon Santoso and youngster Tommy Sugiarto as the singles players. The pairs are world champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan, Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan and Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto.

But national chief coach Yap Kim Hock feels that Indonesia will be over-dependent on their second singles and first doubles for points against the other contenders for the title – China, Denmark, South Korea and Malaysia.

If Malaysia finish as the Group B runners-up, they are expected to take on Indonesia in the quarter-finals. The two teams also clash in the quarter-finals in Jakarta four years ago with the Indonesians winning 3-1.

“Indonesia will be banking on Taufik and the Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan combination to deliver two points and look for the winner from another match,” said Kim Hock.

“Indonesia can bank on their strong crowd support but should one of them lose, then they are in real trouble. Against China, I don't see Indonesia winning the other two singles matches.”

Kim Hock expects Malaysia to face tough fights in all five matches against Indonesia.

While Chong Wei holds the upper hand against Sony, Kim Hock also does not discount the ability of Choong Hann to chalk up an upset win over Taufik.

“Many people think Taufik will beat Choong Hann easily but the fact is that matches between these two players have always been close. I have faith in Choong Hann's ability, but the strong home support could tilt the match to Taufik's advantage,” said Kim Hock.

Kim Hock admitted that both Mohd Hafiz Hashim and Simon, who are expected to clash in the third singles, have had recent inconsistent results.
“Hafiz needs to tread with caution as Simon is a young and dangerous. But Simon is not consistent against top players and Hafiz can win if he is able to raise his game. This is a match that can go either way.”

In the doubles, the Indonesians surprisingly dropped their second ranked pair, Alven Yulianto-Luluk Hadiyanto, in favour of untested Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan and Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto.

Candra, who teamed up with mixed doubles specialist Nova to reach the Asian Championships final in Johor Baru last month in their debut as a pair, are likely to receive the nod ahead of Joko-Hendra for the second doubles slot.

Indonesia are also known to split their combinations and have come up with successful results. Here, Candra will be their ace in the pack.

Kim Hock feels the key in the doubles rests in the match involving the world number one Markis and Hendra.

The Malaysian doubles stable comprises Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Fairuzizuan Tazari-Mohd Zakry Latif.

Said Kim Hock: “Regardless of who is fielded, all the three Malaysian pairs can be depended to deliver against the Indonesians. If we are able to stop their first doubles, our chances of winning the tie are brighter.

“Indonesia's other two pairs may be untested, but they are dangerous also and we cannot take them lightly as well.

“I expect the matches involving Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark and South Korea to be fiercely contested as there is not much separating these four teams. At present, only China's singles department is a class above the rest.”

Indonesia have been drawn in Group D with Germany and Thailand while Malaysia have South Korea and England for company in Group B. China, Canada and Nigeria make up Group A while Denmark, Japan and New Zealand play in Group C.

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 8, 2008

Rexy challenges shuttlers to improve team camaraderie

By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: The simulation ties for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup squads at Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil yesterday failed to achieve its objective as far as enhancing team spirit is concerned.

There was a lack of team support for players on court and it left national doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky a little disappointed. But he chose to look on the bright side.

Rexy said that he was glad that the simulation session exposed the player’s weaknesses and he had challenged both the singles and doubles players to further improve on team camaraderie.

“It is easy to talk and say that the players are united but putting it into practice is not easy. And that is what happened today,” said Rexy.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/8/sports/s_pg69heong.jpg No support: Tan Boon Heong (left) and Koo Kien Keat in action during the simulation match against Ong Soon Hock-Hoon Thien How at Gymnasium II in Bukit Jalil yesterday. – KAMAL SELLEHUDDIN / The Star

Except for several seniors, including skipper Wong Choong Hann and Lee Wan Wah, who cheered their team-mates on, the other members of the team did not seem to take the proceedings seriously. Some of them showed up again when the ties were almost reaching the end.

What was the purpose of the 4½-hour session if the players did not get the feel of what they were going to expect at the Finals in Jakarta? And to make a mockery of it all, the Badminton Association of Malaysian (BAM) handed RM1,000 to the winning teams.

In the seven-match tie for the men, Lee Chong Wei lost the first match against Mohd Roslin Hashim. Despite the defeat, the team should have supported each other to fight back but this did not happen.

The most apparent show of lack of support was when youngster Mohd Arif Latif played the deciding match against James Chua. There were more taunts from the opponents’ camp for Arif than the support he received from his team-mates.

Only after Rexy urged some the doubles players to rally support that the situation improved. Arif won the match to give his team a 4-3 win.
Rexy admitted that the session could have been better organised.

“The coaches had taken the trouble to hold this because we want to ensure that every angle of the preparation for the players are taken care of,” he said.

“Probably, the players would have showed better support if we had called in the public to watch. In Indonesia, the players get to feel exactly what to expect in the Finals during a simulation session.

“But it was disappointing to see some of our players taking it lightly. This is a practice for them. What they do here will be translated at the Finals.

“I am glad that this session had showed up a weakness. We need to further improve. The players have to support each other, especially when one of their team-mates loses.”

The Uber Cup team played against male players and were beaten 1-6.

http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/8/sports/21183058.asp&sec=sports

First, we reward poor performance and attitude by handing out RM1,000.
Second, our so called shuttlers took the simulation with their usual 'tidak apa' attitude.

... and we are still dreaming , hoping and praying that we can win the TC with this bunch of half baked so-called national shuttlers?:o

What happened to the team building in PD?? Looks like money being wasted to me.

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Thursday May 8, 2008

Rexy challenges shuttlers to improve team camaraderie

By RAJES PAUL


After the team building in PD , still they are lacking in terms of team spirits... :o

After the team building in PD , still they are lacking in terms of team spirits... :o

This is really what Malaysia Boleh is all about.

In reality, we have a bunch of donkeys in our TC team but we like to kid ourselves into believing that they are actually a bunch of thoroughbreds.

LCW lost to uncle Roslin??? :eek: Did LCW use his racket or Olympic Torch to play? :D:p

Rileks le bruder ... we just enjoy the ride la. Win or lose, not important. Style and glamour must have enough la.

After the team building in PD , still they are lacking in terms of team spirits... :o

Stimulation match mah, stimulation only. You saw them cheering for team mates during TC qualifiers, spirited too.;) Rexy emphasize a lot on team spirit wan, that was how Indonesia won TC in his playing days & according to a few 'uncles' here, Msia too, back in 1992.

I'm more concerned abt TBH's heel/foot injury. Didnt know he injured it during ABC, he didnt look injured.

Rileks le bruder ... we just enjoy the ride la. Win or lose, not important. Style and glamour must have enough la.

Ehh... Did u watch the game? :rolleyes:

Stimulation match mah, stimulation only. You saw them cheering for team mates during TC qualifiers, spirited too. Rexy emphasize a lot on team spirit wan, that was how Indonesia won TC in his playing days & according to a few 'uncles' here, Msia too, back in 1992.

I'm more concerned abt TBH's heel/foot injury. Didnt know he injured it during ABC, he didnt look injured.

STIMULATION!!! :eek: I can understand if our shuttlers are disinterested with simulation but STIMULATION?? How can they not be interested?? :o

Ehh... Did u watch the game? :rolleyes:

Ehhh... bruuuuder, no need to watch la. The results good enough to tell all.

... and dont tell me this being a simulation exercise, it is ok to take a tidak apa approach. :rolleyes:

LCW lost to uncle Roslin??? :eek: Did LCW use his racket or Olympic Torch to play? :D:p

ha, Jimbo, you came up with new sport :D.

Rexy emphasize a lot on team spirit wan, that was how Indonesia won TC in his playing days & according to a few 'uncles' here, Msia too, back in 1992.


Sorry, Indonesia during Rexy's playing days won the TC not only with their team spirit. They had discipline, focus and their shuttlers were technically class.

Pemuda slammin his own national team?? :D

Pemuda slammin his own national team?? :D

As long as not right, I will speak up.

As long as not right, I will speak up.

Rice price increases... oil prices oso increases... everything more expensive leh... can u help me to voice out in... errr... Parliament or Blog or... Riot? :eek::D

Rice price increases... oil prices oso increases... everything more expensive leh... can u help me to voice out in... errr... Parliament or Blog or... Riot? :eek::D
another another.. air ticket price too high for students... wan cheaper... so can go more tourneys hahah :D

Sorry, Indonesia during Rexy's playing days won the TC not only with their team spirit. They had discipline, focus and their shuttlers were technically class.

This was from Rexy's press statements, not today's one but earlier, commenting on importance of team spirit. Of course the discipline, focus, etc have been taken into account. Rexy was explaining why he emphasise on team spirit, he likes all players to train together, supporting one another.

He commented in one of the TC that Indonesia doubles(including himself & his partner Ricky) were considered not as strong as opponents, but with strong team spirit/support, they were able to win the doubles tie & take the title - not sure which year Rexy's refering to.

After he & his batch retired, according to Rexy, team Indonesia were not as strong in this aspect anymore, did not win TC for some time. His point was although not as strong a team technically, if have strong team spirit, determination, can win.

Rice price increases... oil prices oso increases... everything more expensive leh... can u help me to voice out in... errr... Parliament or Blog or... Riot? :eek::D

Dude, maybe you are unaware but this is a badminton forum ;).

another another.. air ticket price too high for students... wan cheaper... so can go more tourneys hahah :D

... another lost soul here.

Dude, wanna rant about air-tickets and all, do it at some travel forum not badminton.

This was from Rexy's press statements, not today's one but earlier, commenting on importance of team spirit. Of course the discipline, focus, etc have been taken into account. Rexy was explaining why he emphasise on team spirit, he likes all players to train together, supporting one another.

He commented in one of the TC that Indonesia doubles(including himself & his partner Ricky) were considered not as strong as opponents, but with strong team spirit/support, they were able to win the doubles tie & take the title - not sure which year Rexy's refering to.

After he & his batch retired, according to Rexy, team Indonesia were not as strong in this aspect anymore, did not win TC for some time. His point was although not as strong a team technically, if have strong team spirit, determination, can win.

You cant win on team spirit alone. You need to have the other attributes as well. The complete package.

..Boon Heong has a minor injury now to his foot??..hmm..

Btw, anyone else noticed in post #81 (previous page), in the pic, look closely & guess who is in the red t-shirt, laughing his day away....does he look familiar??..:p ;)

..Boon Heong has a minor injury now to his foot??..hmm..

Btw, anyone else noticed in post #81 (previous page), in the pic, look closely & guess who is in the red t-shirt, laughing his day away....does he look familiar??..:p ;)
his foot injury is not serious...he gets immediately treatment after the ABC..
everything is ok..:)

China fired up for Thomas and Uber Cup defence
http://www.zeenews.com/articles.asp?aid=441767&sid=SPO&ssid=93

http://www.zeenews.com/Img/2008/5/8/badminton_news.jpg Jakarta, May 08: China`s highly-fancied shuttlers, led by the temperamental Lin Dan and his girlfriend Xie Xingfang, aim to reinforce their dominance at the Thomas and Uber Cups ahead of their Olympic assault.

The Chinese juggernaut looks unstoppable as it fine-tunes for gold medal glory at the games in Beijing, although host nation Indonesia fancy their chances of an upset at the elite team championships which start here on Sunday.

China has won the past two Thomas Cups and with a side boasting world number one Lin, third-ranked Bao Chunlai and world number four Chen Jin, they are odds on to claim a third.

But they are not invincible, especially with Indonesia, which has won a record 13 Thomas Cup titles, having a boisterous home crowd behind them at the Senayan Sports Complex and Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat on their team.

"The competition at this year`s Thomas Cup is pretty strong, but in the singles we are confident," said Lin, who needs to be on his best behaviour after allegedly striking coach Ji Xinpeng in a temper tantrum last month.”

"If we play well and make the effort then we can defend our championship. For myself, I want to play each match well and win every point for Team china."

Indonesia will be banking on Hidayat, Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Simon Santoso to work miracles in the singles and world doubles champions Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan to do their bit.

Bureau Report

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Friday May 9, 2008

Thomas Cuppers in high spirit for Jakarta challenge
By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: There were smiles on the faces of the Thomas-Uber Cup players as they left for Jakarta yesterday in a bid to bring back glory for the country.

National men’s doubles shuttler Lee Wan Wah sees the jovial mood as a good sign for Malaysia ahead of the Finals, which will begin on Sunday at the Senayan Indoor Stadium.

Having played in the Thomas Cup team since 1996, Wan Wah feels that the current squad have what it takes to handle the pressure of playing in the premier team event.

At the 2004 Finals in Jakarta, Malaysia crashed out in the quarter-finals. Two years ago in Japan, they went one better - reaching the semi-finals.
Now, they hope to make it to the final.

http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/9/sports/s_pg70fook.jpg Fun time: Choong Tan Fook (second from left) joking with Koo Kien Keat while Wong Choong Hann (left) and Lee Wan Wah look on at the KLIA on Thursday.
“This year, we are more prepared. Key players like Lee Chong Wei, Tan Boon Heong and Koo Kien Keat are more matured in their approaches. We do not have to worry about players not being able to handle the pressure,” said Wan Wah.

“If we continue to be cool and calm in our approach towards the Finals, we stand a chance of bringing back the trophy. We had a good chance two years ago but (Wong) Choong Hann was injured,” he said.

The Thomas Cup team comprise Chong Wei, Choong Hann, Kien Keat-Boon Heong, Wan Wah-Choong Tan Fook, Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari, Mohd Hafiz Hashim and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.
The Uber team are Wong Mew Choo, Julia Wong, Lydia Cheah, Tee Jing Yee, Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty, Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin, Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong.

On the lack of support shown by his team-mates during the simulation tie on Wednesday, Wan Wah promised that the team would stay united during the Finals.
http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/9/sports/s_pg72jakarta.jpg Malaysia’s Thomas Cup skipper Wong Choong Hann leading his team and the Uber Cup squad to check in at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport before leaving for Jakarta on Thursday. The Thomas/Uber Cup Finals will be held from Sunday.


“I think the players took it lightly because they were up against their team-mates. We felt like it was just another day of training.
“But rest assured that it will be different when we face players from other countries,” he said.

“From now on, both the Thomas and Uber Cup players will mentally prepare themselves for the task ahead. Everyone knows deep down in his heart that we have a chance of winning it (Thomas Cup). Everyone will just have to do his or her part.”

Wan Wah said they would not dwell on their previous Thomas Cup outing in Jakarta. Then, the team were sent packing in the quarter-finals.

“The past is long gone and forgotten. It is a whole new challenge in Jakarta this time. We will be ready to face any team – be it China or Indonesia,” said Wan Wah.

Malaysia are in Group B with South Korea and England. If they top the group, they are likely to meet top seeds China in the top half of the draw. But if they finish second in the group, they will take on Indonesia in the last eight.
Malaysia, who last won the Cup in 1992, will begin their campaign against England on Sunday.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/9/sports/21196366.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Friday May 9, 2008

Gade-Christensen could make or break Denmark’s hopes
By RAJES PAUL

PETALING JAYA: The world of badminton is awaiting with bated breath the return of Peter Gade-Christensen to action in the Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta.

The lanky shuttler could make or break Denmark’s hopes of winning the Cup for the very first time.

After going missing from most of the tournaments this year due to illness, it is hard to gauge his form.

His only appearance this year was in the Korean Open, where he made it to the semi-finals.

His prolonged absence has seen his world rankings drop to eighth in the world and he will play as the second singles for Denmark.

Kenneth Jonassen is the first singles followed by Joachim Persson at third and reserve Jan Jorgensen.

Their impressive doubles line-up consists of Jonas Rasmussen-Lars Paaske, Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen and Mathias Boe-Carsten Morgensen.
If Gade-Christensen hits top form, he will be a dangerous player at second singles.

But if he falters, then Denmark will be hard pressed to win any points in the singles.

Jonassen will find it very tough having to beat other players at the first spot, like China’s Lin Dan, Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei, South Korea’s Park Sung-hwan and Indonesia’s Sony Dwi Kuncoro.

In fact, Chong Wei has a good record against Jonassen.

Of all the five Cup contenders, Denmark probably have the weakest third singles in Persson. The Dane could be easy meat if Malaysia’s Hafiz Hashim, South Korean Shon Seung-mo, China’s Chen Jin and Indonesian Simon Santoso play true to form.

Malaysia’s chief coach Yap Kim Hock said that the Danes had depth in the doubles and would go all out to steal a point in the singles.

“Denmark’s singles strength has been diluted with a drop in Peter’s form. He has hardly seen action this year and his game is not up to par. He has lost some of his sharpness,” said Kim Hock.

“If we were to meet them (the Danes), I suspect that the third singles will be the deciding factor.

“Their doubles pairs have improved so much. Their top pair have done well. They could also pull off a surprise by fielding their third pair of Boe-Morgensen, who are making a comeback after an injury to Boe. They are quite lethal too.

“Overall, they do not look as strong as they were in the last two editions. But these Europeans are mentally very strong and are known to rise to the occasion. I know they are very fired up to win their first Cup. I will not rule them out as a threat to our team.”

There is a possibility that Malaysia may meet Denmark in the semi-finals. In order for it to happen, Malaysia must finish as runners-up in Group B, which also comprises South Korea and England.

By virtue of being the group runners-up, they are likely to meet Indonesia in the quarter-finals.

The winners will then face Denmark in the last four.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/9/sports/21192914.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Friday May 9, 2008

Chong Wei aims to cast out 2004 Cup Finals demons

KUALA LUMPUR: National number one men’s singles shuttler Lee Chong Wei will be out to exorcise the ghosts of the 2004 Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta.
It was Chong Wei’s first Finals and he played as the third singles.
Unfortunately for him, Malaysia were sent packing in the quarter-finals.
“It was my first but worst Finals outing. I do not want a repeat of that,” Chong Wei said before leaving for Jakarta for the Finals, which will begin on Sunday at the Senayan Indoor Stadium.

Chong Wei said that he would try to rally support from the Indonesian fans.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/9/sports/s_pg71thomas.jpg Our challenge: The Thomas Cup and Uber Cup players posing during a photo session before leaving for Jakarta on Thursday.


“The Indonesian fans can be quite supportive if we are not playing against their players. I have experienced this when I won the Indonesian Open title there (in 2007). I will try to win their hearts again,” said Chong Wei.

Despite having a big role to play in this year’s challenge, Chong Wei said he was not feeling the jitters.

“I used to get nervous. Now, after playing in so many major tournaments, I feel like this is just another task. I will stay focused and give my best,” he said.

NST

9 May

Wan Wah feels Malaysia can do it

By : K.M. Boopathy (boopathy@nstp.com.my)



http://www.nst.com.my/Friday/Sport/2235393/insidepix1
Lee Chong Wei (left) chats with team captain Wong Choong Hann (right) while Hafiz Hashim (second from left), Tan Boon Heong (centre) and Fairuzizuan Tazari look on in the bus before their flight to Jakarta yesterday. — Pic: HAIRUL ANUAR ISMAIL

THE transformation of key shuttlers Lee Chong Wei and Koo Kien Kien-Tan Boon Heong into matured internationals, as far as veteran Lee Wan Wah is concerned, has given Malaysia a fair chance of winning the Thomas Cup after a 16-year-lapse.
Wan Wah said the top shuttlers' standard will be an asset to the team and a committed effort from the others will give Malaysia a genuine chance after failing three times -- 1994, 1998 and 2002 -- in the final after last winning the Thomas Cup in 1992.

Wan Wah, appearing in his seventh Thomas Cup campaign since making his debut in 1996, said he will also be going all out to achieve the goal in his final attempt.

"Our team this year are much better prepared and we have a fair chance of bringing back the Thomas Cup. I believe if everyone plays their role, this can be achieved," said Wan Wah before leaving for Jakarta yesterday.

"The plus factor is that our key players Chong Wei and doubles pair Kien Keat-Boon Heong are now matured international shuttlers and this will help the team in a big way."
Wan Wah is also looking forward to a possible quarter-final match-up against Indonesia although Malaysia have never beaten their rivals in Jakarta.

"That is in the past and it doesn't mean that we will lose to Indonesia every time we play in Jakarta. However, we don't know for sure we will face Indonesia as it will depend on the team strategy.

"It doesn't really matter as we are prepared to battle any team."

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Friday/Sport/2235393/Article/index_html

LET THE WAR BEGINS!!!!
IAAAAH!!!!:p:p:p:p:p:):):D

Dane ready to put behind three months of hell

DANISH ace Peter Gade-Christensen is ready to put behind three months of anguish and turmoil to help Denmark end their quest for their first Thomas Cup.
Having endured difficult times – seeing his father suffer from an illness in January and then breaking his ribs twice because of excessive coughing as a result of pneumonia – the Dane is all fired up to stamp his mark by doing well in the Finals.
The lanky Gade-Christensen, who appeared to have lost some weight, was seen hard at work with his team-mates during a practice session at the Istora Senayan Stadium yesterday.
“It has been a turbulent three months. My father was ill in January and I had to skip the Malaysian Open,” said Gade-Christensen, 31.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/10/sports/65peter.jpg Hardship: Denmark’s Peter Gade-Christensen (left) broke his ribs twice due to pneumonia.
“Then, I broke my ribs twice in January and March. There were so many check-ups and scans.
“I had difficult cases of pneumonia. I did not know that it was possible to have broken ribs by coughing a lot. I had to take time off from badminton to take care of this problem.
“I had great plans for this Beijing Olympic Games year. I had hoped to accomplish so much but there were many setbacks.
“I am better now. My training has picked up and I am looking forward to a good showing in the Thomas Cup Finals as I build up for the Olympics.”
Denmark have good memories of Jakarta, having pulled off a surprise to reach the final in 2004. They, however, lost 0-3 to China.
And Gade-Christensen has again picked defending champions China as the team to beat this time.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/10/sports/65tine.jpg S-t-r-e-t-c-h: Denmark’s Tine Rasmussen (left) and her team-mates warming up before their training session at the Istora Senayan Stadium in Jakarta yesterday.
“Indonesia have home advantage but we have shown in the past that we can beat them. We are not afraid of these teams but we have lots of respect for them,” he said.
“I think, Denmark, Malaysia and South Korea are the second pack of teams who always make life difficult for others. For now, we will focus on beating Japan (in a bid to become the Group D champions).
The others in the Danish Thomas Cup team are Kenneth Jonassen, Joachim Persson, Jan Jorgensen, Jonas Rasmussen-Lars Paaske, Jens Eriksen-Martin Lundgaard Hansen and Mathias Boe-Carsten Morgensen.

Jalani: Koreans are not a threat as our pairs are tactically better

SOUTH Korea’s men’s doubles players have been in smashing form this year.
But that’s no reason to fear them, says former international Jalani Sidek.
In fact, he rates All-England champions Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae and Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-man as ‘non-threats’ to the other teams in the Thomas Cup Finals.
Jalani, who was a member of the Thomas Cup winning team in 1992, feels that Malaysia’s Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong are the best men’s doubles pair among the lot.
And he’s placing high hopes on the pair to make a difference for Malaysia in Jakarta.
“I do not admire the Koreans. They play like robots. They are doing well because of their superb fitness. But tactically, our boys are way better. The Koreans have no flair in their game,” said Jalani.
“But Koo and Tan have the right mix – speed, great attacking ability and sustaining power. Their problem is their failure to latch on to their opponents’ weaknesses. If they can get their act right, they will be unbeatable.”
On Malaysia’s chances, Jalani feels that the Cup is within reach.
“We have three strong doubles pairs. I have a good feeling of our team’s chances in the Finals. In 1992, we banked on one singles and two doubles to win,” he said.
“And this could happen again in Jakarta.”
Two other members of the 1992 Cup-winning squad – Rashid Sidek and Cheah Soon Kit – also felt that Malaysia had a shot at winning the Cup.
“I think our singles and doubles are equally strong. We have several experienced players and this will be an advantage for us,” said Rashid.
“The Thomas Cup is all about team unity. In 1992, we were not the favourites but the home advantage and our great team strength made it possible for us to defy the odds.
“China and Indonesia are not as strong as before. I see a big window of opportunity for Malaysia to win the title this time. It is all about the players’ mental preparation now.”
Soon Kit, while agreeing with Rashid, hoped that history would not repeat itself.
“We had a good chance at the last Finals in Japan. But we made a mistake by fielding an inexperienced reserve. And when (Wong) Choong Hann got injured, (Kuan) Beng Hong could not beat Joachim (Persson and Malaysia went on to lose 2-3 to Denmark).
“Now, we have named another inexperienced reserve. I just hope that we have not made another mistake. But if everything goes according to order, we have a shot at winning the Cup just as China, Indonesia, South Korea and Denmark,” said Soon Kit, who is the head coach of KLRC Bhd.

Kien Keat smells something fishy going on in Jakarta

DOUBLES shuttler Koo Kien Keat is perplexed at the lack of enthusiasm shown by the teams at this year’s Thomas Cup Finals.
He feels that most of the teams seemed more interested in their preparation for the Beijing Olympic Games, which will be held in August.
“We had warm-up activities early in the morning. It was just an exercise to keep us together. But I did not see any other teams doing the same like how it was before,” said Kien Keat.
“The atmosphere was livelier in my two previous Finals. Even Japan, who used to be so serious about the Finals, looked so much at ease. I hardly saw the Korean players around.
“I smell something fishy. Either that or the teams are just not interested in the Finals. Perhaps the Thomas Cup fever will rise when the competition begins on Sunday (tomorrow).
“I hope the atmosphere will get better and livelier,” said Kien Keat, who will play with Tan Boon Heong as the second doubles for Malaysia.
Kien Keat made his debut at the 2004 Finals in Jakarta with Chew Choon Eng before teaming up with Chan Chong Ming in Japan two years ago.

Malaysians in high spirits despite hiccups in Jakarta

THE Malaysian Thomas and Uber Cup squads flew into Jakarta on Thursday evening and found themselves having to overcome several minor hurdles.
But all was quickly forgotten the moment they got their first feel of playing on the courts at the Istora Senayan Stadium yesterday evening.
The shuttlers were in a relaxed mood – breezing through their first training session at the venue despite being watched by a huge number of Indonesian media.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/10/sports/chongwei.jpg Hard at work: Malaysian Thomas Cuppers (from left) Lee Chong Wei, Mohd Fairuzizuan and Lee Wan Wah testing out the courts at the Istora Senayan Stadium yesterday.
After touching down in Jakarta on Thursday, the Malaysian squad faced difficulty in getting to the team hotel.
A high tide had caused flooding in several low lying areas in the city, forcing the bus carrying the Malaysian squad to be caught in a massive traffic jam.
Despite having a police escort to clear the way, it still took the national side more than two hours to dodge the floods and reach their hotel – a journey which normally takes less than 30 minutes.
After arriving at the hotel, the Malaysians found out that their 20-player squad were only allotted two courts for their first training session yesterday morning.
Assistant team manager Hou Kim Tho said that he was unhappy with the allocation, especially since several other teams had the chance to train on three or four courts at the same time.
There are altogether four courts in the main arena at the stadium.
“I voiced my dissatisfaction to the organisers because there was clear inequality in the training allocations. It is not proper to give certain teams an unfair advantage by allowing them more training space than the others,” said Kim Tho.
Luckily Malaysia’s request was accepted and the players managed to train yesterday evening on all four courts.
The Malaysian shuttlers spent an hour playing three-on-three before the national coaches took charge of their respective players for the remaining hour on specific drills.
National chief coach Yap Kim Hock was not perturbed over Indonesian ‘spies’ turning up during Malaysia’s training session yesterday.
“Anybody can come and watch everybody train. I have no worries about our rivals turning up at our training sessions,” he said.
“Both the Thomas and Uber Cup squads have prepared well for this year’s tournament and I am happy that the players did not show any discomfort during our first training session at the Senayan. We are ready for the challenge.”
National doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky was a popular figure at the stadium yesterday as the local television networks were practically queuing up to interview the former Indonesian legend on his thoughts about Malaysia and Indonesia’s chances.
“Given a choice I would prefer Malaysia and Indonesia to meet in the final rather than have one of the countries take on China. As for the winner, of course I choose Malaysia because I am a professional and I have a job to accomplish with the Malaysian squad,” said Rexy.
Tomorrow, the Malaysian men will open their Thomas Cup Group B campaign with a match against England while the women will take on New Zealand.
The Malaysian Thomas Cup team comprise Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Mohd Arif Latif (singles) and Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Zakry Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Tazari (doubles).
The Uber Cup team players are Wong Mew Choo, Julia Wong, Lydia Cheah, Tee Jing Yi (singles) and Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui, Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin and Woon Khe Wei-Sabrina Chong (doubles).

China vows to retain Thomas, Uber Cups

source: http://old.thejakartapost.com/detailsports.asp?fileid=20080510.U01&irec=0

Badminton heavyweight China vows to retain supremacy in the Thomas and Uber Cups -- the world's most prestigious men's and women's badminton team championships respectively.

Competition for the two cups is set to begin Sunday in Jakarta.
China has successfully defended the Uber Cup for 10 years and the Thomas Cup for four years.
"I hope both trophies can stay in our country a bit longer," China's head coach Li Yongbo told journalists at Hotel Sultan on Friday.
Other countries such as Indonesia, Denmark, South Korea and Malaysia stand a good chance to win the cups, he said.
"Each country must fight hard to win this tournament," he said.
He said Indonesia had a good new men's doubles team in Candra Wijaya and Nova Widiyanto.
"They played well at the Asian Championship and they have a lot of experience," he said.
The world No. 1 singles player Lin Dan said he would fight hard in the competition.
"I don't mind playing against Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Taufik Hidayat," he said about Indonesia's first and second singles players..
Sony is skillfully better than Taufik, he said, "But Taufik has more experience."
Meanwhile, Indonesia is confident its players are physically fit for the demanding week-long comeptition at the Bung Karno sports hall.
Physical fitness has improved after an almost two-month intensive training regime under Jason Kurfurst of Australia, said Uber Cup team coach Aryono Miranat on Friday.
"The National Sports Council (KONI) has helped by assigning Kurfurst to train our players," he said.
"Kurfurst has set players specific training schedules to improve their physical condition," he said.
Sutiyoso, chairman of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), said the association had been preparing players for the Uber and Thomas Cup tournament since last year.
"After evaluating performance we concluded most players were weak on physical endurance," he told journalists during the training session.
He added that Kurfurst trained players methodically by monitoring comprehensive data on their progress.
"I hope our players can win the Uber Cup at home, or at least, can get to the semifinals," he said.
Indonesia is taking on the Netherlands on Monday and Japan on Tuesday in Group Z.
Indonesia is desperate to win its first Uber Cup trophy since 1996. The Netherlands, backed by top player Mia Audina, reached the finals in 2006.
Japan is looking for its first win since 1980.
Jo Novita, who pairs with Greysia Polii, expects tough opposition from both opponents.
"I am not too familiar with Japanese players' strengths, but they must be tough to beat," the 27-year-old shuttler said.
She said she was ready for the matches although they were likely to be very physically demanding. "There's a 50-50 chance for us to win the game," she said. "Greysia and I will focus on keeping it together. If we lose the match, it will discourage the whole team." (ewd)

China vows to retain Thomas, Uber Cups
...
Sony is skillfully better than Taufik, he said, "But Taufik has more experience."
...
...wow, this comment by LinDan is very interesting...I thought, all along, Taufik is a better player, skill-wise or technique-wise?!?!...:confused:

Fishy no fishy... still big money if one can with it. Imagine if the malaysian win it. Wah... can retire already. Forget about olympics also can.

Those guys like LCW and LWW doing aerobic izit??? hehe..

Again... try not to give too much hope lah. Semi is a good target. Final is a bonus. Winning is retire bonus.

read about the jalani's opinion 7am this morning...
feel that he's quite arrogant in making such statements...
the game is yet to be start and he already condemning kor pairs that are in better form than mas pairs...
where to put our face if touch wood we lost to kor pairs?

jalani is in his own nice dream...
just face the reality lah...
hi there.
welcome to the forum

George ah, next time you post news from The Star, you can actually click on "Print Article", then it'll have all info, including source. That way, easier for all - we're supposed to quote the source.
__________________________________________________ _______________

NST

10 May

Badminton / Build up to Thomas and Uber Cup: Boon Heong cleared to play


2008/05/10

DOUBLES shuttler Tan Boon Heong, who suffered an injury to his right foot on Wednesday in Kuala Lumpur, has been given the all clear to play in Malaysia's opening Thomas Cup Finals match against England tomorrow. National doubles coach Rexy Mainaky said a scan on Boon Heong's foot showed he neither broke any bone nor tore a ligament.

"Doctors at the National Sports Council (NSC) who scanned his foot said that there was nothing to be worried about. I tested him on court today (yesterday) just to make sure and he looks fine," said Rexy.

"However, if he does complain of pain before the match I will rest him as we have a more important match against South Korea on Monday."

The 21-year-old Boon Heong complained of pain in his right foot after playing in the friendly match between the Thomas Cup team and a Malaysian Selection on Wednesday.


http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2236511/Article/pppull_index_html

Hmmm, didnt earlier report state left heel/foot? nvm

NST

2008/05/10

Badminton / Build up to Thomas and Uber Cup: Gade-Christensen desperate to make an impact

addthis_pub = 'nstonline';
http://www.nst.com.my/Saturday/Sport/2236517/insidepix1
PETER GADE-CHRISTENSEN

IT has been the worst start of the season for Denmark's Peter Gade-Christensen, who has been out of the game for almost three months with two broken ribs sustained due to over coughing during a bout of pneumonia.

But the 31-year-old shuttler is back for the Thomas Cup Finals, his first tournament since reaching the semi-finals of the Korean Open in January.

Gade-Christensen, has good memories of the Istora Senayan Stadium as it was there that he led Denmark to victory against Indonesia in the 2004 edition.

However, unlike in the previous two Thomas Cup editions, the World No 8 will play second singles while teammate Kenneth Jonassen, the current European champion, takes over as the first singles for the Danes.

"It has been a difficult year so far, the most challenging in my career, mainly because I broke two ribs due to over coughing," said the Dane at the Istora Senayan Stadium in Jakarta yesterday.


"As I could not train much, I decided to skip tournaments. I thought then I would never return to the game but thank God I'm back."

Gade-Christensen, who only recovered from pneumonia a month ago, has been training very hard for the event.

"I feel very motivated this time. I believe the challenges I endured over the past months will make me even more determined to deliver," he said.

Gade Christensen, who led Denmak to two appearances in the final -- 2004 (Jakarta) and 2006 (Tokyo) -- hopes that this time around the team will win the Thomas Cup.

"It will be the last hurrah for several players in the Danish team and I believe this factor will make us more stronger.

"Shuttlers like Jonassen, Jens Erikssen and Martin Lundgaard Hansen, who will all retire after the Beijing Olympics in August, will be going all out as they want to win the Cup."

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2236517/Article/index_html

NST

10 May

Badminton / Build up to Thomas and Uber Cup: Tournament hit by scheduling row


2008/05/10

A SCHEDULING row marred preparations for the elite Thomas and Uber Cup Finals yesterday after Indonesia threatened a boycott and the Netherlands blasted the poor organisation. The incident was sparked by Indonesia, who were unhappy that they would have to play the Netherlands and Japan, both considered tough rivals, on the same day in the women's Uber Cup team championship.

According to the Jakarta Post newspaper, they threatened to walk out of the event that they are hosting.

"We threatened to boycott the tournament should Indonesia be required to play twice in one day," said Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) official Gandhi Sulistyanto.

"I protested because the information was unclear."

The Badminton World Federation caved in and altered the schedule so Indonesia play Japan tomorrow and the Netherlands the following day.

But this has infuriated the Dutch team, who said they would lodge a protest as they are now forced to play twice on Monday.

"It was a ridiculous (decision)," Netherlands head coach Martijn van Dooremalen told the newspaper.

"They told me only an hour after I arrived at the hotel. The rescheduling requires a change in strategy and the team's line-up for each match." -- AFP

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2236399/Article/pppull_index_html

George ah, next time you post news from The Star, you can actually click on "Print Article", then it'll have all info, including source. That way, easier for all - we're supposed to quote the source.
__________________________________________________ _______________


eagle, where is the print article icon?:confused:
i cant find leh..

eagle, where is the print article icon?:confused:
i cant find leh..

for The Star it's "Printer Friendly", like below. Star will also have the picture in the print version. Other press dont have.
http://www.thestar.com.my/images/common/email.gif (javascript:remoteLocation('http://archives.thestar.com.my/services/email.asp?file=/2008/5/10/sports/21213260.asp&sec=sports');)
http://www.thestar.com.my/images/common/printer.gif (http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/10/sports/21213260.asp&sec=sports)
http://www.thestar.com.my/images/common/digg.gif (http://digg.com/submit)
http://www.thestar.com.my/images/common/delicious.gif (http://del.icio.us/post)

Picture from Harian Metro, for those who love photos :

http://www.hmetro.com.my/Saturday/Arena/20080510095242/mainpix

http://www.hmetro.com.my/Current_News/myMetro/Saturday/Arena/20080510095242/Article/index_html
Article is interview with Msia TC Captain WCH on 1st tie with England.

__________________________________________________ _______________

http://www.hmetro.com.my/Current_News/myMetro/Saturday/Arena/20080510095026/Article/print_html
BWF uses independent umpires to monitor TC & Uber, some from Africa & Europe to ensure fair line judging for TC & Uber.

Photo from Utusan

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2008/0510/Utusan_Malaysia/Sukan/su_01.1.jpg
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0510&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Sukan&pg=su_01.htm

from Kosmo

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/0510/Kosmo/Sukan/su_08.1.jpg

The players are listening to Rashid Sidek. Team captains WCH & Lim PS standing together. Other players forming another ring in outer circle.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2008&dt=0510&pub=Kosmo&sec=Sukan&pg=su_08.htm
Entitled "I will give highest commitment" a quote from WCH.
Article is interviews with WCH & Lim PS as captains.

all the best to MAS badminton team:)

hi there.
welcome to the forum

hi...thanks..
have register before this but i forget the log in id...XD

NST

10 May

Badminton / Build up to Thomas and Uber Cup: Tournament hit by scheduling row
...
But this has infuriated the Dutch team, who said they would lodge a protest as they are now forced to play twice on Monday.
...
..boy, even up until now, the schedules on the tournamentsoftware.com website haven't been updated either. Wow, all this scheduling has really been a mess, so i can somewhat understand Netherlands' Uber Cup team's protest!..:o :(
But looking at the draws and the total no. of teams in the main Finals, i guess there's no other way around it for some teams to play twice in one day.

Here's the list of teams, based on the latest schedule, which will play twice in 1 day:
Thomas Cup:
Nigeria, Thailand (Day 1) and Japan, S. Korea (Day 2)
Uber Cup:
U.S.A., New Zealand (Day 1) and Netherlands, Hong Kong (Day 2)
...
http://www.hmetro.com.my/Current_News/myMetro/Saturday/Arena/20080510095026/Article/print_html
BWF uses independent umpires to monitor TC & Uber, some from Africa & Europe to ensure fair line judging for TC & Uber.
..very good preparation by the organizer.:cool:

NST

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Dr M and Siti Hasmah meet the shuttlers

addthis_pub = 'nstonline';
http://www.nst.com.my/Sunday/Sport/2237088/insidepix1
Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali meet the Malaysian Thomas and Uber Cup players in Jakarta yesterday. Pic: KHALID REDZA

IT was a nostalgic moment for former BA of Malaysia (BAM) patron Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, who with her husband and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, visited the national Thomas and Uber Cup shuttlers at the lobby of the Sultan Hotel in Jakarta yesterday.
"I remember this hotel (Sultan Hotel) as this was where I stayed with the 1994 Thomas Cup team. It brings back fond memories," said Siti Hasmah yesterday.

"I also felt that I was going back in time when I spoke with the current batch of players. As I can remember, I gave them the same advice which I did to the 1994 Thomas Cup shuttlers."

In the 1994 edition in Jakarta, Malaysia, who were the defending champions, lost 3-0 to the hosts in the final.

Among the things she told the players was to give their best and focus towards winning the coveted trophy.
Siti Hasmah also reminded the shuttlers that it was vital to work as a team. "There should be unity among the shuttlers and with the coaches. I will pray hard for team and, hopefully, my prayers will be answered on ending the 16-year Thomas Cup drought."

She also had words of praise for national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky on his efforts to help the national doubles pairs with their game.

"He (Rexy) is a fantastic coach. I jokingly told him to spank any of the shuttlers if they do not listen to his instructions," she said.

Mahathir said he was happy to meet the shuttlers and hoped they would do their best.

"They seemed spirited and focused and I hope they can translate that on court. I wish them luck and I will pray for their success."

Mahathir and his wife spent 20 minutes with the shuttlers before rushing off to the airport to catch a flight back to Kuala Lumpur

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/Sport/2237088/Article/index_html

NST

11 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Malaysia's easy task

By From Ajitpal Singh

2008/05/11

IT will be a formality for Malaysia when they play England in their opening Thomas Cup Group B match at the Senayan Stadium in Jakarta today. England doubles coach Tan Kim Her, a former player who represented Malaysia, admitted as much yesterday.

"There is no way we can match Malaysia, so we have decided to expose the younger shuttlers this time around," said Kim Her.

"However, it will interesting to see how Malaysia fare against the South Koreans later."

Incidentally, Kim Her was one of the doubles coaches in South Korea for two years before moving to England in 2007.

England surprisingly dropped former World Championships doubles runners-up Robert Blair-Anthony Clark and singles shuttlers Aamir Ghaffar and Nicholas Kidd from their Thomas Cup squad.

National chief coach Yap Kim Hock was unaware that England had dropped the four players until local journalists brought it to his attention.

Earlier, he hinted of the possibility that Blair-Clark could steal a point against Malaysia.

However, Kim Hock later stressed that he would still be fielding his best players for the opening match.

"We are here to win every match and it will be important for the players to get a win to boost their confidence before facing South Korea on Monday (tomorrow)," said Kim Hock yesterday.

"It's not a warm-up match. We are treating it seriously. It will also be an opportunity for the players to adapt to the slight drift in the stadium."

The coach also brushed off rumours that Malaysia might not be at their best against the South Koreans.

"As the scheduled is tight, we need to beat South Korea for an easier opponent in the quarter-finals before taking on China in the last four," he said.

Team captain Wong Choong Hann, meanwhile, said facing England will give him and his teammates the opportunity to fine-tune their games.

"We need to get into rhythm and sharpen our focus before facing tougher teams like South Korea.

"I believe that if everyone plays his part, we will go all the away to the final."

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/Sport/2237059/Article/pppull_index_html

NST

11 May

Badminton: BWF likely to award 2010 job to Malaysia


2008/05/11

THE World Badminton Federation (BWF) is likely to award Malaysia the job of hosting the 2010 Thomas and Uber Cup Finals. The BA of Malaysia (BAM) will present an official bid to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Thursday and the world body is expected to award the event to Malaysia at its council meeting the next day.

BAM is confident that Malaysia will be awarded the hosts job as no other country had made a preliminary bid for the event before Sept 30, last year.

The BWF had set that date as the closing date for countries to submit their preliminary bids.

The world body had initially wanted to award the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup to different countries.

BAM honorary secretary P. Ganga Rao said the association had submitted a preliminary bid only for the Thomas Cup.

"However, since there were no takers for the Uber Cup after the preliminary closing date, we have decided to make an official bid for the Uber Cup as well," he said.

Meanwhile, several questions were raised at the team managers meeting yesterday after the BWF decided to revise the fixtures for the second time on Friday to accommodate the host country in the Uber Cup.

Initially, Indonesia were scheduled to play both of their Group Z matches tomorrow but after the hosts protested, the Netherlands will instead play both their matches on the same day.

Indonesia are now scheduled to play their first Group Z match tomorrow against Japan and against the Netherlands the next day.

All three teams are in Group Z.

Netherlands' manager M. Van Dooremalen and Japan coach Park Joo Bong raised this matter at the meeting but the BWF stood firm.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/Sport/2237087/Article/pppull_index_html

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Sunday May 11, 2008

Choong Hann wants flying start in the opening tie

THOMAS-UBER CUP FINALS, JAKARTA
MAY 11-18

THE opening Group B tie against England should be a breeze and Malaysia led by skipper Wong Choong Hann had urged his team-mates to start their campaign in the Thomas Cup competition in commanding fashion at the Istora Senayan Stadium.

“The players are ready for the battle. And we will give our best to really get a good start in the tournament and get into the momentum immediately,” said Choong Hann after another practice session yesterday.

Malaysia could afford to rest national number one Lee Chong Wei and still beat the English 5-0.

If Malaysia rest Chong Wei, Choong Hann gets to play at first singles followed by Mohd Hafiz Hashim and Mohd Arif Abdul Latif.

In the men's doubles, Malaysia may field debutants Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari and rest either Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah or Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong.

Choong Hann said that he had encouraged his team-mates to stand up for one another.

“It was the first day of training (on Friday) and I reminded them about their responsibility as a team player. Besides focusing on their game, the players have given their commitment to support each other.

“We did not want any single player to carry the pressure and burden alone. If one player is playing, the remaining nine will be there to support them.
“After two days of training here, our players are all very eager to begin their campaign.”

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/11/sports/21219160.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Sunday May 11, 2008

Pressure on Indonesians to deliver on home ground

THOMAS-UBER CUP FINALS, JAKARTA
MAY 11-18

HOSTS Indonesia do not want to be seen as depending on certain players to deliver the points in their Thomas Cup campaign.

The expectations on the Indonesians to win on home soil is so high that the pressure is already being felt by the players even before the competition has started.

Many believe that the Indonesia’s first doubles combination Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan, who are the world number one and also the reigning world champions, shoulder a heavy burden to carry the team through.

But chief singles coach Hendrawan insisted that every member of the Indonesian team has an equal responsibility to deliver in every game.

“We cannot say that this or that player needs to win because as far as the team is concerned, every player in all five matches in a tie has an equal chance to win a point for Indonesia.

“I know that the expectations from the home fans is great, and I hope the squad will be able to rise to the occasion. But I know for a fact that we have a well balanced and strong enough squad to challenge for the Thomas Cup,” said Hendrawan.

The coach’s sentiment was echoed by the hosts’ top ranked singles player Sony Dwi Kuncoro.

Sony does not think that Indonesia’s strategy to promote him to the first singles and allow the country’s former top player Taufik Hidayat to drop down to second as an indication of his inability to deliver a point.

“I am comfortable playing in the first singles and this is not the first time I have been called upon to lead the team. The important thing for me is for Indonesia to do well in this competition, and we must not let the home crowd down,” said Sony.

The hosts open their Group D campaign today with a match against Thailand. The other team in their group is Germany.

Sony is looking forward to meeting Thailand's top player Boonsak Ponsana in the opening match. Boonsak is seen as a real threat. He may be able to prevent Indonesia from keeping a clean sheet in their opening match.

“I have won and also lost against him before. Boonsak is a tough opponent and the fans can expect another close encounter between us. I hope the support from the home fans can spur me on to deliver the opening point for Indonesia,” added Sony, the world number six.

Besides Sony and Taufik, the other two Indonesian singles players are Simon Santoso and Tommy Sugiarto.

In the doubles, besides Kido-Setiawan, the 13-time Thomas Cup champions can also depend on Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan and the scratch pairing of Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto to deliver.

When Indonesia last hosted the Thomas Cup in 2004, they failed to rise to the occasion and were ousted 2-3 by Denmark in the semi-finals.

They lost 0-3 to eventual champions China in the last four, two years ago in Japan.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/11/sports/21219297.asp&sec=sports

1) Interview with Zakry (Courageous Shortie, one half of Fuzzy pair)
http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2008&dt=0511&pub=Kosmo&sec=Sukan&pg=su_08.htm


2) Interview with LCW
http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2008&dt=0511&pub=Kosmo&sec=Sukan&pg=su_06.htm

NST

11 May

Badminton: BWF likely to award 2010 job to Malaysia


2008/05/11

THE World Badminton Federation (BWF) is likely to award Malaysia the job of hosting the 2010 Thomas and Uber Cup Finals. The BA of Malaysia (BAM) will present an official bid to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Thursday and the world body is expected to award the event to Malaysia at its council meeting the next day.
...
...cos Kuala Lumpur, here i/we come back, again?!?!...:confused: :D :p:cool:
kwun, wanna plan a trip to KL in 2 yrs time??...:);)

Berita Harian-- 11/5/08




Malaysia tak berselindung

Daripada Ahmad Khawari Isa di Jakarta, Indonesia


http://www.bharian.com.my/Sunday/Sukan/20080510232527/mainpix
DUA SEJOLI: Chong Wei (kiri) dan Mew Choo yang dikhabarkan dilamun cinta begitu ceria menjelang saingan Piala Thomas dan Uber di Jakarta hari ini.

Turun barisan penuh menentang England pembukaan Piala Thomas

TIADA helah dijelma, tiada tipu daya difikirkan ketika skuad negara memburu permulaan gemilang apabila turun mempamer kemantapan cabaran pada pusingan akhir Kejohanan Badminton Piala Thomas dan Piala Uber di Istora Senayan, hari ini.

Janji diluahkan ialah barisan terbaik bakal dipertontonkan ketika keserasian gandingan, persefahaman berpasukan dan kejituan aksi mahu segera dijana sebelum mengharungi cabaran lebih getir yang menanti kemudiannya.

"Kita akan turunkan barisan terbaik yang ada. Kita tidak mampu untuk menurunkan pemain secara sambil lewa kerana mahukan pemain-pemain utama menyesuaikan diri dengan keadaan gelanggang dan kejohanan secepat mungkin.

"Paling penting ialah mendapatkan rentak dan keyakinan secepat mungkin. Tidak penting bagaimana kemenangan dicapai esok (hari ini) kerana apa yang penting ialah mencapai matlamat supaya lebih bersedia apabila halangan jadi lebih sukar kemudiannya," tegas ketua jurulatih, Yap Kim Hock.

Lantas, pastinya Lee Chong Wei bakal turun selaku perseorangan utama, dituruti gandingan Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah selaku beregu pertama sebelum Wong Choong Hann dan kombinasi Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong menyusul. Hafiz Hashim bakal melengkapkan cabaran ketika menentang England, hari ini.

Wong Mew Choo pula bakal memikul tugas mencari mata pertama, sebelum Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui turun diikuti Julia Wong Pei Xian selaku perseorangan kedua. Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin bakal jadi beregu kedua ketika Lydia Cheah akan diturunkan selaku perseorangan ketika skuad Piala Uber menentang New Zealand.


"Perlawanan pertama nanti bukannya satu ujian, ia juga bukan aksi pemanas badan. Ia adalah perlawanan penting untuk jurulatih menilai prestasi pemain-pemain sebelum menentukan barisan terbaik untuk perlawanan kedua yang lebih getir nanti," kata Kim Hock.

Skuad lelaki negara akan diuji Korea Selatan dalam penentuan juara Kumpulan B, esok, ketika harapan skuad Piala Uber untuk melakar sejarah layak kali pertama ke separuh akhir bergantung kepada kemampuan menundukkan Denmark pada aksi penentuan Kumpulan Y pada hari sama.

Andai mampu merajai kumpulan masing-masing, skuad negara mampu memiliki laluan mudah pada suku akhir. Untuk Piala Thomas, ia mampu menepati sasaran separuh akhir bertemu China ketika skuad Piala Uber mampu menempah pertemuan dengan Jepun pada peringkat sama.
Kapten skuad Piala Thomas, Choong Hann, lantas menasihatkan rakan sepasukan supaya tidak leka dengan cabaran menanti ketika tumpuan mutlak harus dijelmakan untuk setiap aksi yang dihadapi.

"Saya harap semua rakan mempertajamkan fokus masing-masing. Saya harap mereka sedar bahawa ini acara berpasukan dan kami perlu beraksi sebagai satu pasukan. Tiada siapa harus berasa tertekan kerana selagi mempamerkan aksi terbaik, kami pasti meraih ganjaran yang setimpal," katanya.

Kapten skuad Piala Uber, Lim Pek Siah, pula melahirkan keyakinan skuad kali ini berada pada tahap persiapan terbaik untuk melakar sejarah dengan melangkah buat kali pertama ke separuh akhir.

"Semuanya kini baik. Semangat berpasukan bagus, persiapan juga memuaskan. Kami tidak sabar untuk turun beraksi dan saya percaya kami mampu mempersembahkan persembahan terbaik, bermula dengan menentang New Zealand nanti," katanya.

I have not seen a pic of LCW smiling so happily. It's good to see MAS's leading MS and WS so happy and relaxed before the crunch openers. Malaysia Boleh !!

good point...and i have not seen a photo of LCW and WMC going public like this before...love both of them...

Lee CW is quite a happy person off court... ALthough he is cool sometimes during the matches..
Those kinda smile of LCW is quite easily to be seen in his normal life.

What a lovely couple. We should be happy for them and hopefully they will be on the same podium in Beijing... go for GOLD, LCW and WMC :eek::p

http://www.bharian.com.my/Sunday/Sukan/20080510232527/mainpix
It's like "Ah ma, ngo duck jor la!" (Mummy, I've done it!)

He he, apparently the Chinese press reported WMC's parents will be in Jakarta to cheer for their daughter.

Yeah, 1st time LCW & WMC make their relationship public in Msian media.

LCW finally won his Olympic Gold many times over! Congrats!

The picture went public... but there are no statement that is public from them yet. :P

The hot news is that Korea is once again fielding a team that is designed to lose.
In the match against England in Thomas Cup, Korea is not fielding any of their top 3 singles players in single. They all play doubles.
Apparently the task is to finish third in the group to meet either Japan or Denmark in the Quarterfinals.:cool:

The hot news is that Korea is once again fielding a team that is designed to lose.
In the match against England in Thomas Cup, Korea is not fielding any of their top 3 singles players in single. They all play doubles.
Apparently the task is to finish third in the group to meet either Japan or Denmark in the Quarterfinals.:cool:

It's very possible. Where did you hear that from?

please confirm.. Crucial point for our PAW games :p

NST

12 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Easy start for our girls



http://www.nst.com.my/Monday/Sport/2237549/insidepix1
Malaysia clinched the winning point when second singles Julia Wong beat New Zealand’s Michelle Chan 21-18, 21-7.

MALAYSIA proved too strong for minnows New Zealand and won their opening Uber Cup Group Y match 5-0 at the Istora Senayan yesterday.

Performance-wise, the Malaysians gave a good account of themselves as the match was more to fine-tune their game and adapt to a competition situation but the problem the players faced was drift in the stadium.

But stadium conditions aside, the real test for the Malaysians will come in today's clash against Denmark which will decide the group champions.

A win is crucial for Malaysia as it will give them an easier passage to achieving their semi-final target.

National captain Lim Pek Siah said it was an important win against New Zealand towards achieving their semi-final target.

"We came here to do better than out quarter-final achievement in the 2004 edition (Jakarta) and we have taken our first step today (yesterday) towards making it a reality. We have to admit that all of us felt tensed before as we were worried. But we have overcome it," said Pek Siah yesterday.

World No 10 Wong Mew Choo set the tone, albeit nervously, before beating Rachel Hindley 21-18, 21-6 in 30 minutes.

The second doubles match between Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin and New Zealand's Donna Cranston-Emma Rodgers was played first as Rachel, who had just played against Mew Choo, was scheduled to play the first doubles.

Pek Siah and Hui Lin, a scratch pair, easily beat Donna-Emma 21-7, 21-16 for Malaysia's second point.

The Malaysians clinched the winning point when second singles Julia Wong beat Michelle Chan 21-18, 21-7.

Julia said she faced problems with the drift in the stadium but managed to adapt in the second game.

"I feel very happy to clinch Malaysia's winning point," said Julia.

World No 10 pair Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui then made it 4-0 with a 21-13, 21-14 win over Rachel Hindley-Renee Flavell, before another debutante, Lydia Cheah secured a 21-11, 21-8 win against Jessica Jonggowisastro in 22 minutes.

In an earlier match, 10-time Uber Cup champions China beat the US 5-0 in a Group W match.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/Sport/2237549/Article/index_html

NST

12 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: No sweat for the men

By : From Ajitpal Singh (ajitpalsingh@nst.com.my)



http://www.nst.com.my/Monday/Sport/2237548/insidepix1
Lee Wan Wah (right) and Choong Tan Fook congratulate each other after defeating England’s Robert Adcock and Robin Middleton 21-19, 21-16 in the men’s doubles match at Istora Senayan yesterday.

MALAYSIA'S Thomas Cup campaign got off to a winning start when they demolished England 5-0 in their Group B tie on a day when the draft, glare from the lighting and the environment at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta, gave the Malaysian players more problems than the young English team.
The manner in which Lee Chong Wei, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah and Wong Choong Hann won their matches was hardly impressive.

The question now is whether the Malaysians can take a giant leap against South Korea today.

Chong Wei was the first to be troubled by the draft as he made several bad judgements and unforced errors to allow Andrew Smith to give him a run of his money.

The World No 2 also seemed restless and in a hurry to finish the game, and had it not been for his experience, he could have lost. He prevailed 21-17, 21-15 in 31 minutes.
Tan Fook-Wan Wah, the World No 4, had an unimpressive 21-19, 21-16 win over little-known Robert Adhock-Robin Middleton, while Choong Hann played like a novice against England's No 2 Rajiv Ouseph before winning 22-20, 21-16 to give Malaysia an unassailable lead.

Choong Hann, 31, admitted that he had a bad game yesterday.

"The lighting and draft troubled me today (yesterday). Besides that I was unfamiliar with Rajiv's game style," said Malaysia's captain. Only Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and third singles Hafiz Hashim gave a good account of themselves.

Kien Keat-Boon Heong showed grit and determination in their 21-12, 21-12 win over England's Christopher Adcock-Christopher Langridge.

Hafiz also put on an excellent performance to beat Ben Beckman 21-15, 21-14.

National singles coach Misbun Sidek said his charges found it tough to adapt to the conditions in the stadium.

"Adjustments had to be made during their respective opening matches and they took time to make the necessary changes," said Misbun yesterday.

"However, it was a good opening outing for the shuttlers as they will be more prepared for the cruncher against South Korea tomorrow (today)."

Misbun left no doubt that only the best team will play against the South Koreans.

Meanwhile, national doubles coach Rexy Mainaky warned the shuttlers that they must adapt to the stadium's conditions as quickly as possible if they hope to progress.

"If the players fail to do it, we may have problems against the better teams," he said.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/Sport/2237548/Article/index_html

NST

12 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Indonesia stun Japan



http://www.nst.com.my/Monday/Sport/2237550/insidepix1
Indonesia’s Adriyanti Firdasari celebrates after defeating Japan’s Yu Hirayama 21-11, 20-22, 21-13 yesterday. — AFPpic

HOSTS Indonesia caused a major upset in the Uber Cup when they defeated second seeds Japan 4-1 in a Group Z tie at the Istora Senayan yesterday.
Eriko Hirose earned the only point for Japan when she beat Maria Kristin 9-21, 22-20, 22-20 in the first singles.

However, backed by a boisterous home crowd, Lilyana Natsir-Vita Marissa saw off Satoko Suetsuna-Miyuki Maeda 9-21, 21-19, 21-14 before Adriyanti Firdasari edged Yu Hirayama 21-11, 20-22, 21-13.

Greysia Polii-Jo Novita secured Indonesia winning point when they beat Reiko Shiota-Tomomi Matsuda 21-14, 21-18.

Pia Zebadiah delivered Indonesia's fourth point when she beat Kaori Mori 21-19, 21-17.
In other Uber Cup matches, China, the defending champions, thrashed the United States 5-0 while South Korea had no problems disposing South Africa 5-0.

In the Thomas Cup, champions China had it easy against Nigeria winning 5-0.

Nigeria, who had only four available players yesterday, are competing in the Thomas Cup for the first time. Their other three players will only arrive today due to flight problems.

In other matches, Thailand edged Germany 3-2 while Denmark beat New Zealand 5-0.
addthis_pub = 'nstonline';
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/Sport/2237550/Article/index_html

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Monday May 12, 2008

Choong Hann vows to come good against the Koreans

SKIPPER Wong Choong Hann's moment of truth has arrived in his bid to make up for the disappointment of being forced out on the team – albeit due to an injury – during the quarter-final tie against South Korea at the last Finals in Japan two years ago.

Then, Choong Hann snapped his Achilles tendon and had to be flown back home.

Choong Hann will be playing the second singles match today against the same South Korean team in the final Group B tie and he has vowed to put up a better performance after getting off to an inspiring start yesterday.
He was stretched to the limit by England's Rajiv Ouseph before winning 22-20, 21-16.

If South Korea decide to play at full strength today, the 31-year-old Choong Hann will be up against Lee Hyun-il today.

http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/12/sports/s_67choong.jpg A relief: Wong Choong Hann applauds the fans after edging England’s Rajiv Ouseph 22- 20, 21-16 yesterday.



“I did not contribute a point for Malaysia against South Korea the last time around but this time, I will go all out to make up for that disappointment,” he said.

“I did not play as good as I had expected against England. I rarely play against Rajiv and found this tall player to be a difficult opponent. His shots were out of my reach. But I am glad that I got back into the rhythm in the second game.

“It could be good to start this way. It has fuelled the fire in me to perform even better.”

Choong Hann reiterated that Malaysia will not hold back against the Koreans.
“All of us are seasoned campaigners. We did not get off to a good start today. But we will not allow this to rattle us.

“We have faith in each other and we believe that we will only get better and better,” he said.

“We have a tough tie against South Korea unless they decide to field a weakened side. The Koreans can do whatever they want but the Malaysians will be focused on their mission – to fight all the way to win the Cup.”

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Monday May 12, 2008


Malaysia out to beat Danes to reach first ever semi-final

COACHES Yap Kim Hock and Rexy Mainaky are confident that the Malaysian women’s team can still overcome Denmark at the Istora Senayan today even if Wong Mew Choo loses the first singles match of a crucial Uber Cup tie to determine the Group Y winners.

Malaysia and Denmark both want to top the group to avoid being in the same half of the knockout draw together with overwhelming favourites China.
World number 10 Mew Choo will be up against an in-form Tine Rasmussen, who is ranked fifth.

“We want Mew Choo to give us a morale boosting first point against Tine. But if she loses, all is not lost. We have enough quality to bounce back in the next four matches,” said Kim Hock.

Rexy pointed out that the Malaysian women’s 5-0 win over New Zealand yesterday should not be used as a yardstick to predict the chances against the Danes, who emerged as the winners in the Uber Cup European Zone qualifiers.

“It was good that we could play a weaker side like New Zealand before taking on Denmark. The players were feeling excited before the first tie and can be forgiven for not giving their best.

“But more importantly, the players have found their rhythm for the challenge against the Danes,” he said.

“The Danes also fear playing against us. It is not only in the first singles or the first doubles, which are crucial ones, but we also have fighting chances to get points in all the five matches.”

Mew Choo, who has a 1-1 career record against Rasmussen, rates her chances of overcoming the lanky Dane as being 50-50.

“Denmark’s strength lies in their first singles and first doubles. If we can get the first two points, then the tie is as good as ours. But it would not be an easy task. I pledge to do my best to give Malaysia a winning start,” said Mew Choo.

Skipper Lim Pek Siah said that they were eager to create history by becoming the first Malaysian Uber Cup squad to play in the semi-finals.

Malaysia have only qualified for the Finals on merit once before, also in Jakarta in 2004 and they reached the quarter-finals.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/12/sports/21221732.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Monday May 12, 2008

Choong Hann vows to come good against the Koreans
...
....it's been 2 long years, and although this won't be a QF match, it's redemption time for WCH..;)

....it's been 2 long years, now it's redemption time for WCH..;)

He will play against LHI and our Uncle Wong has to wait another two more yrs to "revenge" :eek::p

He will play against LHI and our Uncle Wong has to wait another two more yrs to "revenge" :eek::p
..against who he's playing, he's got another shot at redeeming his match, from 2 yrs ago.;) Hope the KOR squad will field their best players, too...:cool:

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Monday May 12, 2008

Malaysia not holding back

By Rajes Paul and Loganath Vello
Photos by Kamal Selleuddin

MALAYSIA have decided that they want to emerge as the winners of Group B for a direct entry to the Thomas Cup quarter-finals, even if it means going into the same half as defending champions China.

Malaysia chalked up a 5-0 win over England yesterday and they will play against South Korea at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta today. The losers will have to play an extra tie to get into the quarter-finals in the other half of the draw, which should have Indonesia and Denmark.

National singles coach Misbun Sidek said yesterday of their final group fixture: “Today, we fielded our best players. We will do the same to take on the South Koreans.”

If Malaysia beat South Korea to top the group, they will play against either Germany or Japan in the quarter-finals. The Germans were beaten 2-3 by Thailand in Group D yesterday and they will have to earn the quarter-final berth in a play-off against the runners-up in Group C.
http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/12/sports/s_70malaysia.jpg Sweat it out: Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah needed all their experience to beat England’s Robert Adcock-Robin Middleton 21-19, 21-16.

And a quarter-final win for Malaysia will give them a tie against China for a place in the final.

Yesterday, a Malaysian team at full strength came under stiff challenges from the English side.

Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann and the veteran pair of Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, especially, had to dig deep into their reserve to win their matches. The other two points came from Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Mohd Hafiz Hashim.

Misbun said that it was a good warm-up ahead of the tie against South Korea.

“The players took time to get adjusted to the draught in the stadium, the lighting and the whole environment. Some of our players struggled but I am not worried at all. Chong Wei did not show variety in his game and he has to improve on this,” he said.

National doubles coach Rexy Mainaky admitted that the Malaysian players would have to double their efforts, especially in the doubles.

“I understand why the players struggled today. They were the best Malaysian players and nothing but a win was expected from them. This affected their play,” he said.

On their chances against South Korea, Rexy said that it would depend on the line-up their opponents chose to field.

“You know the Koreans. They are full of mystery when it comes to the Thomas Cup Finals. In the Thomas Cup qualifiers (in Vietnam in February), they fielded a singles player in the doubles. They always have tricks up their sleeves,” he said.

“It is good for us if they field an under-strength team. Then, we can beat them easily and achieve our target. But the tie could go down to the wire if they field their best.

“At the last Finals, Malaysia managed to win only one point (from the doubles) and it will be great if both the pairs can deliver this time.”

If both teams are at full strength in the singles, Chong Wei will face Park Sung-hwan. The second and third singles matches will pit Choong Hann against Lee Hyun-il and Hafiz against Shon Seung-mo respectively.

But Malaysia may rest Tan Fook-Wan Wah and field Kien Keat-Boon Heong at first doubles against against All-England champions Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae. The younger Malaysian pair will have the better chance to cope with the pace of the Koreans.

This option will give Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari a match against Lee Jae-jin-Hwang Ji-Man.

..against who he's playing, he's got another shot at redeeming his match, from 2 yrs ago.;) Hope the KOR squad will field their best players, too...:cool:

Based on today's KOR lines-up against the ENG, I have 100% confident that WCH will get his revenge, against a non-single KOR player :eek::D

i want NZ to go through :( my rachel T.T

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Malaysia crash at volatile Istora


http://www.nst.com.my/Tuesday/Sport/2238789/insidepix1
Denmark’s second doubles pair of Christinna Pedersen (right) and Mie Schjott Kristensen celebrate after beating Malaysia’s Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin to seal a 3-2 win for Denmark in their Uber Cup Group Y tie at the Istora Senayan yesterday.

MALAYSIA'S failure to analyse their opponents and handle the pressure of the intimidating Indonesian fans proved to be their downfall as the women crashed to a 3-2 defeat to Denmark in a Group Y Uber Cup tie at the Istora Senayan yesterday.
The loss has dented Malaysia's hopes of achieving the semi-final target set by the BA of Malaysia (BAM).

They will now face second seeds Japan, who lost both their Group Z matches to Indonesia and Netherlands, in the play-off today.

The winners of the playoff will likely face South Korea in the quarter-finals.

After a confident performance against New Zealand on Sunday, hopes were high that the Malaysian team would justify their fourth seeding against the European champions yesterday.
It would have been a different story if World No 10 Wong Mew Choo had beaten Tine Rasmussen in the first singles.

Mew Choo collected nine straight points to win the first game 21-19 but had no answer to the 25-year-old Tine's aggressive play in the second. Mew Choo made numerous unforced errors and the Danish shuttler won the second game 21-19 in 18 minutes.

The deciding game was no different as Tine's deceptive play caught the Malaysian flat-footed time and again as she won 21-14.

Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui's gallant effort put Malaysia on level terms when they defeated Kamilla Rytter Juhl-Marie Ropke 22-20, 21-16.

Julia Wong then took to the court in the second singles and was expected to beat unknown Nanna Brosolat Jensen easily for Malaysia's second point.

It seemed to go Julia's way when she won the first game 21-14.

However, Nanna -- thanks to the support of the Indonesian fans -- raised her game to win the second 21-19.

The second game was interrupted when a spotlight burst. The match was stopped for 10 minutes as officials cleared up the shattered glass.

In the third game, the Indonesian fans continued to torment Julia and she eventually lost 21-19.

Hopes were on Lim Pek Siah-Ng Hui Lin to level the tie but they failed to deliver, losing 21-18, 21-18 to Christinna Pedersen-Mie Schjott Kristensen.

In the dead third singles, Lydia Cheah gave a good account of herself by beating Camilla Sorensen 21-11, 21-14.

Team captain Pek Siah admitted the loss against Denmark had put a dent in their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.

"I feel bitter losing to Denmark and it will be very tough to see off Japan in the play-off tomorrow (today).

"However, the team's morale is still high despite the defeat and we hope for the best against Japan,"said Pek Siah.

She blamed herself for the defeat, saying that she and Hui Lin should have won their match.

"Of course the pressure was there to deliver the point but I was confident we would win against Christinna-Mie.

"However, I just did not give 100 per cent. Credit should be given to the Danes as they played their hearts out."

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2238789/Article/index_html

NST

13 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: It's a breeze for the men


2008/05/13

IT was a tie that South Korea had no interest in winning and that meant Malaysia, who fielded their best, had an easy win in their Thomas Cup Group B tie at the Istora Senayan Stadium yesterday. Malaysia won 4-1, thanks largely to Korea fielding a weakened lineup as part of their strategy to win the title but national chief coach Yap Kim Hock was not bothered by the nature of the win.

Malaysia will play the winners of the Germany-Japan playoff today in the quarter-finals tomorrow.

"I received information about Korea's plan on Sunday. However, we are not bothered as we came here with the intention of winning all ties," said Kim Hock yesterday.

South Korea rested Park Shun Hwan and Lee Hyun-Il and fielded scratch pairs in the doubles against England (which they lost 4-1) and Malaysia yesterday.

World No 2 Lee Chong Wei started the ball rolling with an effortless 21-14, 21-14 win over South Korea's third ranked Shon Seung Mo in the first singles.

In the second singles, Wong Choong Hann saw off reserve shuttler Hong Ji Hong 21-14, 21-10 in just over 30 minutes.

However, South Korea pulled one back when scratch pair Jung Jae Sung-Lee Jae Jin stunned World No 5 Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah 20-22, 21-10, 21-16 to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

Former All-England champion Hafiz Hashim provided the winning point when he thrashed Hwang Ji Man, a doubles player, 21-5, 21-11 in 20 minutes.

Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong then wrapped up the tie with a 23-21, 21-19 win over Lee Yong Dae-Hong Ji Hoon

NST

13 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Koreans manipulate format



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South Koreans Lee Hyun Il and Park Sung Hwan lost to England’s Christopher Langridge and Christopher Adcock 16-21, 12-21 at the Istora Senayan yesterday.

MALAYSIA were thinking of doing it but South Korea beat them to it by unabashedly throwing their Thomas Cup Group B tie against England yesterday.
Korea, considered dark horses here for the title, lost 4-1 and then admitted that the defeat was part of their strategy to clinch the Thomas Cup for the first time.

And in a damning indictment of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), Korea team manager Kim Jong Soo said they were only taking advantage of the system by choosing opponents for the next stage.

The format, where all teams qualify for the second stage regardless of their results in the group stage, was introduced in the 2004 edition.

The top team from each of the four groups qualify directly for the quarter-finals while the second and third placed teams advance to playoffs to decide the remaining four slots.
"Blame BWF for it. We are only taking advantage of the system. I prefer a format where only the top two teams from the four groups qualify for the quarter-finals," said Jong Soo.

He said it was pointless for teams to play matches for positions in a group when all eventually qualify for the next stage. "It only encourages teams to field weaker teams. Another reason we are doing it is because the format is hectic for the shuttlers."

South Korea fielded Hong Ji Hoon, their reserve singles player, in the first singles while doubles shuttlers Lee Jae Jin and Hwang Ji Man played second and third singles respectively.

On why they chose Denmark as their quarter-final opponents, Jong Soo said the coaches felt Korea had a better chance against the Europeans.

"We came to Jakarta to win the Thomas Cup and not to make up the numbers. Why we chose Denmark in the last eight? Well, we feel our shuttlers have a better chance against them in our bid to win the title."

Should Korea go on and win the Cup, they will probably go down in history as the first team to have finished at the bottom of the pile in the preliminary stage and yet won the tournament.

Meanwhile, Indonesia head coach Christian Hadinata and Denmark head coach Steen Pedersen agreed the tournament format should be changed to ensure teams do not throw matches.

Christian said nobody should criticise Korea as they were only taking advantage of the format's weakness.

"In my opinion, the world body should revamp the format to prevent abuse," Christian said.

Pedersen said another option that could be considered by BWF is to have a redraw in the play-off.

"It will keep teams guessing and it is highly unlikely that they will then resort to fielding weak teams in group ties," Pedersen said

BWF officials were not available for comment but -- after China chief coach Li Yongbo admitted "arranging" a result in the 2004 Athens Olympics women's singles -- it will be interesting to see what action, if any, is taken.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2238575/Article/index_html

NST

13 May

Drop shots: China's streak snapped


2008/05/13


CHINA'S record of going six matches without dropping a point in the Uber Cup since the 2006 edition in Tokyo, came to an end yesterday against Germany but their opponents won the point by default thanks to an overheating spotlight which blew. The spotlight, just above Court Three which China and Germany were playing on, blew out when Zhang Yawen-Wei Yili were 1-0 up in the first game against Kathrin Piotrowski-Michaela Peiffer in the first doubles.

China were then leading 3-0 and team manager Tian Bingyi refused to allow his charges to continue and instead decided to split the two doubles points with Germany.

Taufik is aloof at home

TAUFIK Hidayat may be a friendly person outside Indonesia but he has a different personality when playing in his own country.

He does not give autographs nor does he acknowledge fans who have been cheering for him in matches.

He also has only one word answers to questions from local reporters during press conferences.

Julia caves in to pressure

JULIA Wong fell victim to the roars and boos from the fans at the Istora Senayan in her match against Denmark's Nanna Brosolat Jensen when the Indonesian crowd decided on cheering for the Danish player instead.

The Malaysian felt the pressure and lost the deciding game.

Going from bad to worse

JOURNALISTS covering the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals face several challenges due to the organisers inability to provide a stable internet connection or sufficient power points.

Several complaints were lodged with the organisers but none seemed interested to rectify the situation.

Now, even the lighting in the press area is not working.

NST

13 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Red-faced BWF promises changes


2008/05/13

THE Badminton World Federation (BWF) is looking at the possibility of introducing a new format for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup in order to eliminate teams throwing matches. Among the changes being considered is having only the top team from each of the four groups qualify for the semi-finals while the rest compete in classification matches.

BWF deputy president Datuk Punch Gunalan said the current format was initially introduced to promote the game but teams are now taking advantage for the wrong reasons.

"I don't blame South Korea for fielding a weaker team for their group matches. Any strong team will do it if they have a chance," said Punch at the Istora Senayan yesterday.

"We introduced the current format in the 2004 Jakarta edition to give a chance for smaller nations to play in the event. However, with the latest development, we now need to sit and talk about changing the format."

So far only South Korea have openly admitted that they intended to lose their group matches to England and Malaysia in order to get favoured opponents in the quarter-finals.

In the Uber Cup, second seeds Japan, who lost to Indonesia 4-1 in their Group Z match on Sunday, also fielded a weaker team in their 3-2 loss to the Netherlands yesterday in order to avoid China.

When asked whether the format is diluting the tournament's prestige, Punch said it is not as the federation is in the process of promoting badminton to the world.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2238838/Article/pppull_index_html

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Tuesday May 13, 2008

Denmark warn against annoying the fans

DENMARK fear that badminton fans would start to turn away from the sport if the Badminton World Federation (BWF) do not make a major revamp to the present competition format for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup tournaments.
Chief coach Steen Pedesen described the strategies of several teams who deliberately lose matches in order to choose their future opponents as not good for the sport.

He was unhappy, in particular, with South Korea's staged defeat by England yesterday.

“It is unfair for the badminton fans who turned up to watch the Koreans play like Donald Ducks against England. Something is wrong with the playing system when we start having teams like Korea disrupting the quality of this world-class competition,” said Pedesen.

“At a time when badminton is striving for global appeal, this problem is giving the sport a bad image. Winners should be decided on the court alone, and off court plotting needs to be eliminated.”

He gave the assurance that his squad would not stoop so low as to tarnish the reputation of the competition.

Pedesen offered a suggestion to solve the problem, which stemmed from the decision to allow all 16 teams to progress to the knockout stage.

“If BWF feel that they want all 16 teams to move on, they could have a separate draw for the second round onwards,” he said.

“The four group champions should qualify automatically to the quarter-finals. And a fresh draw needs to be made after the group ties for the second- and third-placed finishers. This is to determine their positions and opponents for the knockout phase.

“By holding a separate draw after the group phase, teams can no longer plan ahead to choose their future opponents before the tournament has even started.”

Pedesen also gave a word of caution to the Koreans, who cited their main reason for fielding weakened teams against South Korea and Malaysia was to meet Denmark in the quarter-finals.

“Denmark's target in this competition is to win every tie, regardless of the opposition. We do not have preference or any reason to avoid any team.

“If the Koreans think they are being smart by playing us in the last eight, they are in for a surprise. Denmark have beaten Korea before in the Thomas Cup and we are capable of doing it again.”

http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/13/sports/21230462.asp&sec=sports

The Danes, who have yet to emerge as the champions, were the finalists in the last two editions in 2004 and 2006.

What the others say

CHRISTIAN HADINATA (Indonesian manager and doubles legend): I do not think South Korea did anything wrong. They saw a way to get the best out of the system and capitalised on it. They adopted the strategy that they think is right for the team. Yes, thowing away matches is not good for the sport. A review of the system is needed to prevent teams from doing this.

MISBUN SIDEK (Malaysia's singles coach): It is a pity that the players are forced to do this. Yes, it is a team strategy but one that is not good for the morale of the players. I hope this will not happen again.

LI YONGBO (China's chief coach): We cannot make a fuss over South Korea's move. They used the format very well. China, however, will never do this.

The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Tuesday May 13, 2008


Badminton: Blame it on the format, says Korean manager

SOUTH Korea made a total mockery of the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) competition format for the Thomas Cup Finals by openly declaring that their best path to the final is by losing all their group matches.

The new format, allowing all 16 teams to move into the knockout phase, was introduced at the 2004 Finals, also in Jakarta.

Yesterday morning, the Koreans fielded their singles players in the doubles and their doubles specialists in the singles to lose 1-4 to England in their opening Group B tie.

Immediately after the defeat, team manager Kim Jong-soo admitted that they had also plotted to throw away their final group tie against Malaysia last night. The Koreans also lost 1-4.

The reason: South Korea wanted to finish bottom of the three-team group to go into the same quarter of the knockout draw with Denmark.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/13/sports/s_pg66kim.jpg The Korean team manager Kim Jong-soo admitted that the team had deliberately lost to England and Malaysia to increase their chances of reaching the final.


If they had beaten both England and Malaysia to top the group, South Korea will go into the same half of the draw as defending champions China.

If they had beaten England but lost to Malaysia and finish second, they go into the same quarter as hosts Indonesia.

South Korea have yet to feature in the Thomas Cup final.

“It was not a late decision. We had discussed all options and settled on finishing last in the group, even before arriving in Jakarta,” said Jong-soo.

“After studying the draw and analysing our strengths and weaknesses, it was best for us to play against Denmark in the quarters, Indonesia in the semis and China in the final. We had to adopt the best strategy to maximise our chances of winning the Cup.”

Against England, fourth ranked singles player Hong Ji-hoon played in the opening match, going down 19-21, 21-18, 16-21 to Andrew Smith.

Lee Yong-dae partnered third singles player Shon Seung-mo in the first doubles and they defeated Robert Adcock-Robin Middleton 21-19, 21-15.
http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/13/sports/s_pg66hwang.jpg South Korea’s doubles specialist Hwang Ji-man holding a broken racquet during the second singles match against Mohd Hafiz Hashim of Malaysia.


Doubles player Lee Jae-jin went down 11-21, 19-21 to Rajiv Ouseph in the second singles match and the top two singles players Park Sung-hwan and Lee Hyun-il combined in a 16-21, 12-21 defeat by Christopher Langridge-Christopher Adcock.

Another doubles player, Hwang Ji-man put the finishing touch to the South Korean sham by going down 11-21, 18-21 to Nathan Rice.

In having no qualms over killing the spirit of sportsmanship and depriving the paying fans and television viewers around the world of getting their money's worth, Jong-soo was critical of the competition format.

“We are merely taking advantage of the loopholes in the current competition format, which was created to allow countries to play more matches at the Finals. The fault lies with the organisers and not with the teams,” he said.

“In order to maintain the credibility of the competition, it would be better for the BWF to revert to the previous format where only the top two teams in each group qualify for the quarter-finals. Then, no such plotting will arise.”

South Korea, as the bottom team in Group B, will play against Group A runners-up Canada today for a place in the quarter-finals.

LI YONGBO (China's chief coach): We cannot make a fuss over South Korea's move. They used the format very well. China, however, will never do this.

:eek::eek::eek: China NEVER did this??? Hmm... I was "blind" in JB for the recent ABC??? :rolleyes:;):cool: Wake up, moron... :cool:

That was a statement from LYB. Of course he denies it.

:eek::eek::eek: China NEVER did this??? Hmm... I was "blind" in JB for the recent ABC??? :rolleyes:;):cool: Wake up, moron... :cool:
he meant, 'we will not do it' for team...but for individual, yes...:rolleyes:

he meant, 'we will not do it' for team...but for individual, yes...:rolleyes:

With his "dream team", he doesnt have to do it. CHN is the mighty mouse and the rest are just "donald ducks" :eek::p

“Denmark's target in this competition is to win every tie, regardless of the opposition. We do not have preference or any reason to avoid any team.

This guy (Denmark's head coach) deserves every praise n respect from baddies around the world. Hat off to U, Mr.Pedesen :)

Jaded Taufik vows to buck up




http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/13/sports/s_pg65taufik.jpg
INDONESIAN Taufik Hidayat (pic) is rated as the strongest player at second singles but his jaded performances in his matches thus far has only brought smiles to the rivals.
Indonesia booked a place in the quarter-finals from Group D with victories over Thailand (3-2) and Germany (5-0). Taufik lost to Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk on Sunday and did better yesterday Dieter Domke but he was still far from impressive.
In the quarter-finals tomorrow, Indonesia will take on the winner of today's ties between England and Nigeria.
Taufik has pledged to bounce back from jittery starts to help Indonesia regain the Cup they last won in 2002 in Guangzhou.
“The Thai boy played well. I gave my best but I just could not pull it off despite the strong support from the home fans,” he said.
“My only excuse is that my form is not at its best. I am finding it hard to keep the fire burning. I am a family man now and people must understand that I cannot be at my best all the time. I am not a robot.”
Taufik added that he would only get better.
“I played better today. I am confident that I will only improve. This is my last Finals and I will find enough courage and strength to help Indonesia to go all the way. I owe it to the fans,” he said.
On his defence of the Olympic title in Beijing in August, he said: “I can win it if I want it. For now, I just need to work on getting the feel of the game.”
The second ranked players in teams of the other top contenders are Peter Gade-Christensen (Denmark), Lee Hyun-il (South Korea), Wong Choong Hann (Malaysia) and Bao Chunlai (China).
Taufik will have to raise his game if he were to meet Gade-Christensen or Hyun-il in a projected semi-final tie.
The other singles players in the Indonesian team are Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Simon Santoso and Tommy Sugiarto.

http://thestar.com.my/sports/story.asp?file=/2008/5/13/sports/21230467&sec=sports

NST

14 May

Malaysia stun Japan


2008/05/14


MALAYSIA pulled off the first major upset in the Uber Cup when they stunned second seeds Japan 3-0 to advance to the quarter-finals at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta, yesterday. This is only the second time Malaysia have made it to the last eight, the first being in 2004, also in Jakarta.

Now, the Malaysian women must brace themselves for the tough encounter against third seeds South Korea today but if they reproduce yesterday’s form, a berth in the semi-finals is well within their reach.

World No 10 Wong Mew Choo was in her element yesterday as she chased every shot Eriko Hirose could throw at her and limited her unforced errors.

Mew Choo’s court-craft and powerful smashes were too much for the Japanese and went on to win 21-17 in 17 minu t e s.

The Malaysian did not let her advantage slip in the second game and won 21-18 to leave Eriko stunned.

“I was in doubt of a win today (yesterday) but I was also determine not to let down the country. Also, I wanted very much to silence the fans who have been against Malaysia. I wanted to prove to them that we can rattle the Istora S e n aya n , ” said Mew Choo after the m at c h .

Mew Choo’s win spurred her teamm at e s ’ confidence and determination and the scratch pair of Lim Pek Siah-Wong Pei Tty and Julia Wong, against the odds, won their matches in style.

The Malaysian bench decided to field Pek Siah-Pei Tty in the first doubles and the move paid dividends when the pair, employing some aggressive play, beat Satoko Suetsuna-Miyuki Maeda 21-15, 21-18 in 41 minutes.

Julia, the World No 29, knew she had a battle on her hands against Yu Hirayama, who is ranked 10 places above her, but the 21-year-old did not disappoint in securing Malaysia’s winning point.

The Malaysian took the first game 21-15 but lost the second 10-21.
In the decider, Julia looked to be heading for defeat as she trailed 8-13 at one point.

However, Julia’s confidence received a boost when Mew Choo, seated just behind the court, urged her to fight on and it worked as Julia raced to a 21-19 win.

The match lasted almost an hour.


A delighted Julia said afterwards: “It is our first victory against Japan. I knew Yu would be a tough opponent but I never gave up.

“The turning point came when Mew Choo gave me some advice and urged me not to be hasty and to play long rallies instead of trying to finish each point quickly. This worked.” National back-up coach Rashid Sidek said it was a risk breaking up the combination of first and second doubles.

“The girls played better under no pressure as the favourites were Japan. We knew that the Japanese pairs were better and we took the risk of breaking up the pairs, and thankfully, it worked,” said Rashid.
“Now we will face South Korea and it will need another great effort from the girls in this tie.”

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Sport/20080514085509/Article/pppull_index_html

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday May 14, 2008

Malaysia rise to the occasion to stun second seeds Japan

THE Malaysian Uber Cup squad defied the odds in the playoff round for quarter-final berths, knocking out second seeds Japan 3-0 at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta yesterday.

The Malaysians showed no after-effects of their demoralising 2-3 defeat by Denmark just a day earlier when they overpowered the Japanese for the first-time ever in the Uber Cup Finals.

By booking a spot in the last eight against South Korea today, the Malaysians equalled their best-ever achievement in the Finals accomplished in 2004, also in Jakarta. Then, they bowed out 0-3 against China.

Yesterday, Wong Mew Choo and Julia Wong redeemed themselves after their losses against the Danes by delivering two crucial points.

In between, the gamble to split the doubles combinations paid handsome dividends when Lim Pek Siah teamed up with Wong Pei Tty to stun the more fancied Satoko Suetsuna-Miyuki Maeda 21-15, 21-18 in the first doubles.
Mew Choo set the ball rolling for Malaysia with a clinical 21-17, 21-18 victory over Eriko Hirose in just 41 minutes.

The decision to balance up the strength of the two pairs by breaking up the first ranked combination of Pei Tty and Chin Eei Hui worked wonders. And Eei Hui and Ng Hui Lin were not required to play the second doubles match after the tie went dead in favour of Malaysia.

Against the athletic Suetsuna-Maeda, Pek Siah-Pei Tty banked on their vast experience to remain in control and make it 2-0 for Malaysia.

It was left to Julia to clinch the winning point, and she did not disappoint against Yu Hirayama.

After taking the first game 21-15, Julia lost focus and lost the second tamely at 10-21. She was also on the ropes in the rubber, trailing 6-11 at the court changeover. But concerns over a repeat meltdown that let to her defeat by Denmark's Nanna Brosolat Jensen proved unfounded.

After a pep talk from Mew Choo and also coach Rashid Sidek, the Malaysian number two fought back and levelled the score at 13-13. Both players traded points until 19-19 before Julia pulled away to seal a famous win.

“I lost my way midway through the second game and the decline continued at the start of the third game,” said Julia.

“Mew Choo's advice to me was to be more patient with my attacking game. I was rushing into making attacks and this allowed Hirayama to exploit the situation. I heeded the advice and regained control and was determined to fight back and never gave up.”

Rashid said that Malaysia can expect a much tougher hurdle against third seeds South Korea today.

“After China, the Koreans are the next toughest opponents to play in the Uber Cup. They have all-round strength and they also have more experience in their side. But our confidence is high after defeating Japan and we are hoping to put on another good performance in the quarter-finals,” he said.

Fourth seeded Malaysia had to go into the playoff round, involving second and third-placed teams in groups, after finishing as the runners-up in Group Y behind Denmark and ahead of New Zealand.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/14/sports/21242200.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday May 14, 2008

Two-fold mission for our warriors

MALAYSIA can ride on the strength of their singles players to get the better of Japan in the Thomas Cup quarter-finals at the Istora Senayan today.

But Malaysia may be aiming for more than a win. They may also want to regain supremacy over the Japanese in the doubles department.

Malaysia may make changes to the doubles line-up. The top ranked pair of Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah may be rested for Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong to move up and pour cold water on the hot run of Shintaro Ikeda-Shuichi Sakamoto.

Veterans Tan Fook-Wan Wah who have not played against Ikeda-Sakamoto may find the young and fast attacking Japanese pair too hot to handle.

If Malaysia opt for Kien Keat-Boon Heong, Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif-Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari will get to play their first match in the Finals, probably against Keita Masuda-Tadashi Ohtsuka.

Malaysia start as favourites to win the tie but chief coach Yap Kim Hock warned against taking Japan lightly.

“Chances are bright for us to enter the semi-finals. But we cannot just brush aside the Japanese challenge,” he said yesterday.

“They came close to defeating Denmark yesterday. Their first doubles won a point and their second pair almost stole another.

“But after a below-par performances of their doubles players against Germany today, they may field their third pair (Keishi Kawaguchi-Naoki Kawamae). They can field any pair ... I am confident of our players’ ability.”

Meanwhile, Zakry said of the possibility of making his baptism of fire in the Finals: “This is an important tie for Malaysia. Japan have fielded the best team thus far and they are likely to do the same against us.

“But Fairuzizuan and I are more than prepared to play a match against them.”
The Malaysian singles players – Lee Chong Wei, Wong Choong Hann and Mohd Hafiz Hashim – are without doubt superior than their Japanese opponents.

They could name Mohd Arif Abdul Latif for the third singles match but are unlikely to take a risk, especially in the knockout stage of competition.

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/14/sports/21243446.asp&sec=sports

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday May 14, 2008

Japan banking on doubles power to pull off an upset

JAPAN’S chief coach Park Joo-bong (pic) believes that the key for his team to beat Malaysia in the Thomas Cup quarter-finals today is in the doubles matches.

The South Korean badminton legend, who also had a stint with the Malaysian national team, is pinning hopes on Shintaro Ikeda-Shiuchi Sakamoto and Keita Masuda-Tadashi Ohtsuka to deliver both points.

“Malaysia have higher ranked players in both the singles and doubles and are the favourites to win the tie,” said Joo-bong yesterday.

“But we have hope to score an upset based on the fact that our two pairs have beaten Malaysian pairs several times in international tournaments. It will be difficult but we have a chance if the doubles can deliver.”

He added that his charges would be up to the challenges after having played two tough ties in as many days before taking on Malaysia.

On Monday, the Japanese were involved in what was arguably the best tie of the Finals thus far, going down 2-3 to Denmark in Group C.

They went the distance yesterday to secure a 3-2 victory over a battling Germany in the playoff round for quarter-final berths.

“The momentum is clearly with Japan. The players have already displayed their true fighting spirit through two very tough encounters. Hopefully, we can ride on this factor to our advantage against Malaysians,” said Joo-bong.
“Although we needed five matches to beat the Germans, I am happy with the performances of my players as Germany are a quality team.”

Against the Germans, Ikeda-Sakamoto and Sho Sasaki were the losers in the first doubles and second singles matches. Japan earned their victory with points from Shoji Sato and Kenichi Tago in the singles and the second doubles pair of Masuda-Ohtsuka.

:eek::eek::eek: China NEVER did this??? Hmm... I was "blind" in JB for the recent ABC??? :rolleyes:;):cool: Wake up, moron... :cool:
oh well, they are too strong to pick opponents.

sending another teammate in to high seeding thus qualilfy the olympics is different compare to avoiding stronger opponents. even though both can be described by the word cheating.
with that said, If i am LD, it would be hard for me to refuse to get another teammate in to a higher seeding thus qualify him for world games, even if the cost is for me to lose a game. it's all about where you stand, period.

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Wednesday May 14, 2008

Hendra aims to turn dream into reality

DOUBLES shuttler Hendra Setiawan had just made his break into the national team when Indonesia last won the Thomas Cup in Guangzhou in 2002.
“I was only 18 when I joined the team. It was a proud moment for me because it was not easy to break into the doubles department of the Indonesian national team,” said Hendra.

“At that time, Indonesia won the Thomas Cup (beating Malaysia 3-2 in the final). It has been my dream to be in a Cup-winning side since then.

“I did not make the team in 2004 (in Jakarta). There were just too many good senior doubles players. I made it to Japan in 2006 but I did not get to feel how it was like to win the Cup. We lost to China in the semi-finals.”

And the 24-year-old Hendra, who won the world title with Markis Kido last year, hopes that his dream will turn to reality this time in Jakarta.

Hendra-Markis forms the top ranked partnership in the team. The other pairs are Joko Riyadi-Hendra Gunawan and Candra Wijaya-Nova Widianto.

“We are determined to get our hands on the Cup. Markis and I do not want to drop a single match,” declared Hendra.

Indonesia take on England in the quarter-finals today and it should be a walk in the park for them to get the semi-finals against the winners of the tie between Denmark and South Korea.

“We have strong doubles pairs in the team. Many wrote off Joko-Hendra at the second doubles because they are first-timers but they proved everyone wrong by coming good against Thailand (on Sunday),” said Hendra.

“Candra and Nova are also reliable based on their performances at the ABC (Asian Championships). They were the runners-up. Their experience is vital for the team.

“Markis's father passed away recently. It took him away from training for a while. But both us are back on track. I cannot wait to hold aloft the Cup.”
Indonesia boast of having many legendary doubles players and Hendra singled out United States-based Tony Gunawan as his mentor.

“I have always admired and respected him. I did not have the privilege to be in the same team as him. But even now, we keep in touch through text messages. He gives me a lot of inspiration,” said Hendra.

“I will be great to be like Tony and win all the major titles in the world.”

http://www.thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2008/5/14/sports/21239892.asp&sec=sports

NST

13 May

Thomas and Uber Cup Finals: Red-faced BWF promises changes


2008/05/13

THE Badminton World Federation (BWF) is looking at the possibility of introducing a new format for the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup in order to eliminate teams throwing matches. Among the changes being considered is having only the top team from each of the four groups qualify for the semi-finals while the rest compete in classification matches.

BWF deputy president Datuk Punch Gunalan said the current format was initially introduced to promote the game but teams are now taking advantage for the wrong reasons.

"I don't blame South Korea for fielding a weaker team for their group matches. Any strong team will do it if they have a chance," said Punch at the Istora Senayan yesterday.

"We introduced the current format in the 2004 Jakarta edition to give a chance for smaller nations to play in the event. However, with the latest development, we now need to sit and talk about changing the format."

So far only South Korea have openly admitted that they intended to lose their group matches to England and Malaysia in order to get favoured opponents in the quarter-finals.

In the Uber Cup, second seeds Japan, who lost to Indonesia 4-1 in their Group Z match on Sunday, also fielded a weaker team in their 3-2 loss to the Netherlands yesterday in order to avoid China.

When asked whether the format is diluting the tournament's prestige, Punch said it is not as the federation is in the process of promoting badminton to the world.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Sport/2238838/Article/pppull_index_html

Maybe Punch's been logging on to BC :D:D:D

The Rising Nepal

JAKARTA, May 11:

Badminton bad boys Lin Dan and Taufik Hidayat are playing for than just their countries at the Thomas Cup here this week — they both want bragging rights going into the Beijing Olympics.

World number one Lin and Olympic champion Hidayat have a well documented history of public spats, each earning their reputation with a series of fiery outbursts.

With the Thomas Cup the last major tournament ahead of the Olympics, how the arch-rivals perform, and just as importantly behave, in the team championships will be closely scrutinised as an indication of what to expect in August.

Lin might be the world’s best player but he is walking a fine line after he allegedly struck coach Ji Xinpeng in a temper tantrum during a training match in April.

It prompted a chorus of calls for him be punished with some fans demanding that the hot-headed star be dumped from China’s Olympic team.
“The coaching team and chief officials have spoiled Lin. He should have been kicked out of the team earlier,” the China Daily quoted one fan as saying following the controversy, as the Internet ran hot with criticism.

Lin denied striking Ji but subsequently apologised.

“Originally I thought this was a very minor matter. But then it was affecting the reputation of the badminton team so I apologised to the coach,” he said.
The mercurial badminton genius was involved in a similar altercation with South Korea’s Chinese head coach Li Mao in the Korean Open early this year.
In that incident, Lin rushed Li after a questionable line call and appeared poised to hit him with his racket before trainers and teammates intervened.
His tiffs with Hidayat are legendary and boiled over at the Asian Games in 2006 when the Indonesian superstar launched an astonishing attack on Lin, calling him arrogant and unfriendly.

Hidayat then beat him in the final, with Lin declining to attend the post-match news conference where he would have had to sit next to his nemesis.
The Chinese star began his Thomas Cup campaign with an early morning 21-6, 21-11 win over Nigeria’s Greg Orobosa Okuonghea Sunday and escaped any needling from the crowd, but knows he needs to keep a lid on his emotions.

“It is always different and difficult playing in Indonesia,” he said.
“The Indonesians are very passionate people when it comes to badminton, especially when playing at home. You have to control your emotions when playing in front of the Indonesian crowd.”
While Lin continues to create waves with his behaviour as well as with his badminton, Hidayat claims he is a reformed character since having a baby last year.

Indonesia’s biggest sports star insisted at a tournament in Hong Kong in December that his fiesty days were behind him.

“I’m more relaxed and I just think about my family now, not like before,” said Hidayat, who plays here later Sunday.

“I was a bit terrible but now I’m more quiet. I just think about my family and about the baby.”

Hidayat has provided some of the genteel sport’s more shocking moments.
During the national championships in 2001, he charged into the stands and attacked a spectator. He was also accused of a carpark brawl during the 2004 Thomas Cup in Jakarta, and once threatened to play for Singapore in a row over coaching.

In 2002, he held up the Busan Asian Games final for two hours in protest at a line call, a performance he repeated in South Korea in August 2006, before his outburst at Lin at the Doha Asian Games.

NST

17 May

Rexy: Koo-Tan the worst


2008/05/17

"THE strongest became the weakest" was doubles coach Rexy Mainaky's description of Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong's performance in yesterday's Thomas Cup semi-final against China. "I'm very unhappy with their performance. They were singled out to win a point but they failed to meet my expectations.

"As a team, Malaysia played well but individual performances wise, the pair were the worst," said Rexy in Jakarta yesterday.

Rexy was hoping Kien Keat-Boon Heong, the World No 4, would give Malaysia a 2-0 lead after Lee Chong Wei had shocked Lin Dan in the first singles.

However, the two -- especially Boon Heong -- made too many mistakes against the spirited Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng and lost 21-16, 21-17.

"As their coach, I need to get back to Malaysia and have a heart-to-heart talk with them to see what is their problem now.

"I really don't understand them. When I feel everything is okay, one of them will always lose his focus and form.

"The Olympics are less than four months away and I will need to be careful in preparing the duo for the event.

"The problem with them, especially Boon Heong, is the lack of a winning attitude. They don't go on court in the right frame of mind. I need to work with them on this."

There were no temper tantrums from Rexy though, who said he is determined to get the pair back on track.

"No, I'm not quitting Malaysia. I like it in Malaysia and will even consider an extension if the BA of Malaysia decides to keep me beyond 2009."

Rexy was also pleased with the performance of Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari as second doubles.

"I spoke to them about the possibility of them playing first doubles and they were ready to take the challenge.

"Unfortunately, Choong Tan Fook came down with flu and we had to change our plans. Still, Zakry-Fairuzizuan played extremely well to keep Malaysia in the semi-final and their confidence should be boosted."

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2242869/Article/pppull_index_html

NST

So near yet so far


2008/05/17

THE stage was set for Hafiz Hashim to, as he did in Guangzhou six years ago, to turn hero again but the shuttler failed to deliver as Malaysia were beaten 3-2 by China in their Thomas Cup semi-final at Istora Senayan yesterday. Second doubles Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari kept Malaysia in the hunt with a fabulous performance against Xie Zhengbo-Guo Zhengdong after first doubles Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong failed to deliver an expected point but Hafiz found Chen Jin just too good in the deciding singles.

It was also a wasted effort for first singles Lee Chong Wei, who was a class above World No 1 Lin Dan in the first singles.

In the end, Malaysia were left to lick their wounds on a day where they came so close to making the final.

The day started poorly for Malaysia when the coaches had to re-jig the lineup after Choong Tan Fook woke up with a bout of flu.

The plan had been to play Zakry-Fairuzizuan as first doubles and the scratch pair of Kien Keat-Tan Fook as second but with Tan Fook unwell, chief coach Yap Kim Hock and doubles coach Rexy Mainaky went for Kien Keat-Boon Heong as first and Zakry-Fairuzizuan as second.

And when World No 2 Chong Wei started on a furious note, which left Lin Dan breathless at times, hopes were high that it would be Malaysia's day.

Chong Wei raced to a 7-0 lead before Lin Dan earned his first point but the Malaysian kept the shuttle low and mixed his game with a variety of dropshots and net play to win the opening game 21-12.

Lin Dan failed to make any headway in the second game and Chong Wei finished him off 21-14 for only his fourth win over the world champion in 12 meetings.

Then came Kien Keat-Boon Heong against World No 2 Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng, opponents who have always found the Malaysians too hot to handle.

But Kien Keat-Boon Heong were erratic at best and the unforced errors count was simply too high as they fell 21-16, 21-19.

The momentum had swung China's way as a resigned Malaysia knew that Wong Choong Hann would not be able to beat Bao Chunlai.

It went as expected as Choong Hann lost 21-18, 21-7.

It was then the turn of debutants Zakry-Fairuzizuan and they didn't disappoint Rexy with a brilliant 21-17, 21-15 win over Zhongbo-Zhendong.

Malaysia were level and hoping that Hafiz would finally find the something extra to beat Chen Jin, having lost their previous four meetings.

Hafiz gave it a go, albeit briefly, in the first game and it was point-for-point until Chen Jin led 11-9 at the break.

But that was it as Hafiz's form suddenly deserted him and Chen Jin won 21-12.

It was more of the same in the second as Chen Jin romped home 21-16 to take China into the final and send Malaysia home.


http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2242868/Article/pppull_index_html

NST

Hafiz puzzles Misbun


2008/05/17

NATIONAL singles coach Misbun Sidek experienced conflicting emotions yesterday. Elation when Lee Chong Wei got the better of World No 1 Lin Dan and dejection when a rather insipid Hafiz Hashim fell 21-12, 21-16 to Chen Jin, a defeat which handed China a 3-2 victory in the Thomas Cup semi-final.

The manner of Hafiz's defeat raised questions about Misbun's assertion coming into the tournament that the shuttler was back at his best but the coach stood firm.

"As far as I'm concerned, I did my job well to prepare Hafiz and I was actually quite confident he would be back to his best. However, it did not materialise today (yesterday)," he said.

"If I'm not a good coach, then why is Chong Wei doing well? I feel dumbfounded when I think about Hafiz

"No doubt, Chen Jin was the favourite but Hafiz could have given him more of a fight. I motivated him before the match, reminding him to give his best, but it failed. The best of Hafiz, I feel, will never come. He must learn to help himself from now on."

But it is the opposite for Chong Wei, whose confidence received a tremendous boost after the easy 21-12, 21-14 over Lin Dan.

"Malaysia's defeat disappoints me but on the individual front, I believe that I can give Lin Dan a fight for the Olympics gold in Beijing," said Chong Wei.

"Lin Dan wasn't his normal self and made numerous mistakes but I believe I also played very well.

"What is important now for me is to build on this and continue working hard till the Olympics."

Even China chief coach Li Yongbo admitted that Chong Wei will be a threat to Lin Dan's hopes of winning gold at the Beijing Games.

"It's a different Chong Wei that I saw today (yesterday). If he keeps it up, he will do well at the Olympics. I need to prepare Lin Dan for it," said Yongbo.

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Sport/2242871/Article/pppull_index_html

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008

Malaysia unable to capitalise on fiery start against China

MALAYSIA were the underdogs, knowing very well that they needed to win the two doubles matches to have a chance of beating China in the Thomas Cup semi-finals at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta yesterday.

They only managed to get one from the second doubles match after Lee Chong Wei had giving them a rousing start to raise hopes of an upset over the defending champions. And Malaysia ended up as 2-3 losers.

Much was expected of Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong to press on the advantage Chong Wei had given the team with a comfortable 21-12, 21-14 win over world number one Lin Dan. But the pair lost the first doubles match against Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng at 16-21, 17-21 defeat.

Veteran Wong Choong Hann lost 18-21, 7-21 to Bao Chunlai in the next match to hand the lead to China, who had lost to Malaysia in the semi-finals of three previous editions in 1992, 1994 and 2002.

After Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif played superbly to keep Malaysia alive with a 21-17, 21-15 win over Guo Zhengdong-Xie Zhongbo, Mohd Hafiz Hashim had the task to turn the tables on Chen Jin to take Malaysia into the final. But he crashed to a 12-21, 16-21 defeat by a player carrying a hand injury.

Said skipper Choong Hann: “The team tried really hard. We were up against a very strong side and there is no shame in our defeat.”

With the defeat, Malaysia continue the chase to regain the Cup they won at the Stadium Negara in Kuala Lumpur in 1992.

Doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky was especially disappointed with the defeat of Kien Keat-Boon Heong.

“As a team, we gave China a good fight. But as a coach for Kien Keat-Boon Heong, I am really disappointed. They are the strongest pair but turned out to be the weakest today. Hopes were high on them to deliver a point and they failed,” he said.

“I am tired of their up-and-down performances. Koo played well but not Tan.
“They like to take turns like this. They were hardly motivated on the court.”
National chief coach Yap Kim Hock felt that the team gave their best in the contest.

“I am satisfied with the performances. China were strong and they proved this again today.”

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008


Major shake-up in men's doubles after Olympics

THE current national men’s pairs will be reshuffled after the Olympics in August.

Doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky said following the failure of Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong to deliver a needed point in the Thomas Cup semi-finals against China yesterday that he would have made the changes immediately if not for the Beijing Games.

Kien Keat-Boon Heong are the qualifiers for the Games together with veterans Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah.

In the 3-0 victory over Japan in the quarter-finals, Tan Fook paired up with Kien Keat to great effect. But Rexy was unable to tinker with the doubles line-up against China after Wan Wah picked up a slight injury and Tan Fook came down with fever.

Kien Keat-Boon Heong had to play in the first doubles while third-ranked Mohd Fairuzizuan Tazari-Mohd Zakry Latif were given their baptism of fire in the Finals.

“A major shake-up to form the strongest pairs will be taken after the Olympics. For now, I need to sit down with Koo and Tan and have a heart-to-heart talk with them. I need to understand what is inside their hearts and minds,” he said.

“A player needs to be self-motivated to earn success and make his country and team proud. I did not see this quality in them today. Both players don't seem to be able to get into stride together during a match. Today, it was Boon Heong who had a bad day.”

Kien Keat had a difficult time explaining why they were unable to put up a stronger challenge against world number two Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng. They were beaten 16-21, 17-21 in 39 minutes.

“We were struggling to put points on the board and that only made us more eager to kill the shuttle quickly. We ended up making too many unforced errors and this led to our downfall,” said the dejected Kien Keat.

Prior to their meeting yesterday, Kien Keat-Boon Heong had defeated the Chinese top pair twice in three meetings last year – at the All-England and Swiss Open tournaments. The previous year, they chalked up a famous win over the Chinese in the semi-finals of the Doha Asiad and went on to claim the gold medal.

Besides the top three combinations who featured in the Thomas Cup Finals, there are three other pairs under Rexy's charge in the national senior men’s squad – Tan Bin Shen-Ong Soon Hock, Gan Teik Chai-Lin Woon Fui and Tan Wee Kiong-Hoon Thien How.

__________________________________________________ ______________

Those who wanted KKK/TBH to split, wait a few months. Would be interesting to see how the new pairings will look like.

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008


Hot , hot debut from Fairuzizuan and Zakry

MOHD Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari and Mohd Zakry were short in comparison to the towering Xie Zhongbo and Guo Zhengdong.

But the duo, playing their first-ever match in the Thomas Cup Finals, walked out very tall. They overcame early nerves to beat the Chinese 21-17, 21-15 in a thrilling fourth match of the semi-final tie yesterday.

The win kept Malaysia in contention for a place in the final. But their efforts were all in vain as Mohd Hafiz Hashim fell to a 12-21, 16-21 defeat by Chen Jin in the decider.

Malaysia bowed out but Fairuzizuan-Zakry can take consolation in passing their first test in the Thomas Cup Finals with flying colours.

“Zakry and I were quite nervous at the start of the match and we did not want to look at anyone around us,” said Fairuzizuan.

“It was an important match. We had to win it. Otherwise it was all over for Malaysia. We did not want to let down the team. Slowly but surely, we picked up pace.”

It was a neck-and-neck fight in the first game up till the one-minute interval. Then, the Malaysians grew more confident and entertained the crowd with a good attacking and tactical play to win 21-17. In the second, they were outstanding and saved the tie for Malaysia.

“It was a great feeling to beat this Chinese pair, especially after losing to them in the World Championships (in Kuala Lumpur) last year,” said Fairuzizuan.

“But it is pity that we could not go all the way to win the tie. It would have made our win more meaningful if we had made it.”

He added that the result yesterday was another shot in the arm for their badminton career.

“We want to start winning titles and establish ourselves as one of top pairs in the world,” said Fairuzizuan.

__________________________________________________ ______________

Good work, Courageous Shortie & Fuzzy, keep it up & keep the cobwebs out.

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008


Chong Wei sizzles but Hafiz fizzles out

LEE Chong Wei brought early joy to Malaysia when he raised the chances of victory over China in the Thomas Cup semi-finals yesterday. But in the end, Malaysia bowed out with the tame defeat of Mohd Hafiz Hashim (pic) in a decisive fifth match.

Chong Wei gave a solid display to exact revenge over Lin Dan. The top ranked Malaysian, who lost tamely to the Chinese at the Swiss Open final in March, won the opening match of the tie 21-12, 21-14.

He broke Lin Dan's resolve from the start and took only 36 minutes to demoralize the world number one. After the win, Chinese coach Li Yongbo even gave Chong Wei the thumbs up as he walked towards the celebrating Malaysian camp.

“I even surprised myself with the way I won today. This is one of my greatest wins over Lin Dan. I studied his game intensively after losing without much fight at the Swiss Open. It gives me great satisfaction to nail him down today,” said Chong Wei.

“This has certainly put me in a right mood for the Beijing Olympics. I will continue to improve my game.

“Today, I did my part to win the first point and it certainly would have been double joy for me if Malaysia we had made it to the final. Unfortunately, it did not happen.”

All the flying start from Chong Wei, Malaysia lost the next two matches. Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Wong Choong Hann were beaten Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif levelled the tie at 2-2.

It was left to Hafiz to rise to the occasion to send China packing. But he was beaten 12-21, 16-21 by Chen Jin in a 42-minute littered with mistakes.
A solemn faced Hafiz said: “I gave my best but Chen Jin played better. He kept flicking the shuttle to the back and I could not match his pace.”

Misbun summed up Hafiz's performances by saying: “What can I say. We just did not get to the see the best of Hafiz today. Chen Jin was not his best. But Hafiz failed to take advantage of that. I would have expected to see more aggression from him.

“This is a sad way to lose the tie after the great fightback (from Fairuzizuan and Zakry).”

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008


Yongbo: China not taken to the full distance for a long time

CHINA chief coach Li Yongbo thanked the Malaysian squad for giving his team a great fight in the Thomas Cup semi-finals.

The outspoken Chinese said that it had been quite a while since their men’s team were required to go the full distance before winning a tie.

China needed their third singles player, Chen Jin, to secure a 3-2 victory with a 21-12, 21-16 win over Mohd Hafiz Hashim in the fifth match of the tie.

Prior to the semi-finals, the defending champions had breezed through their previous three encounters in the Finals without dropping a game, let alone a point.

“I have waited for this day for a long time. I finally get the chance to see another country giving the China men’s team a real fight right till the end,” said Yongbo.

“The Malaysians came here with a very strong squad and I am happy that my players managed to overcome them. The close margin of victory does not bother me because what was important was to get into the final.

“Our 3-2 win could have easily been 3-0 if Lin Dan had won the opening match. But it was not his day today and (Lee) Chong Wei was also at his best. In fact, Lin Dan’s defeat turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it spurred his team-mates to play harder and make up the deficit.”

Yongbo added that Lin Dan and second doubles pair of Xie Zhongbo-Guo Zhengdong, who lost the second doubles match, would be asked to prove their worth in the final.

“The best way for them to redeem their battered pride is by helping China retain the Thomas Cup. It can be South Korea or Indonesia, it does not matter. After today’s battling display against Malaysia, I am confident of my players beating any other team in the competition.”

China's second singles player Bao Chunlai, who defeated Wong Choong Hann 21-18, 21-7 to put the defending champions 2-1 up, was surprised by the easy manner of his victory.

“I knew there was a heavy responsibility on my shoulders to win a point after Lin Dan had lost the opening match. But I never expected to win this so easily. Choong Hann was clearly not playing at his best and I could capitalise on the situation,” he said.

Besides Chunlai and Chen Jin, China's other point was delivered by the first doubles pair of Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng.

Six-time champions China will be making their ninth appearance in the final of the Thomas Cup series tomorrow.

The Star Online (http://www.thestar.com.my/default.asp) > Sports
Saturday May 17, 2008

Historic first for Koreans

SOUTH Korea made it to the final for the first time in the Thomas Cup 60-year history with an efficient 3-0 victory over a battling Indonesia last night.

The Koreans, who advanced to the semi-finals with a heavily criticised tactical ploy to lose their two group ties, overcame both a determined Indonesian challenge and their extremely noisy fans to set up a final showdown against China tomorrow.

The famed roar from about 10,000 spectators inside the packed Istora Senayan failed to lift Sony Dwi Kuncoro in the first singles match against Park Sung-hwan.

The Korean, who had lost a tough three-game battle against Denmark's Peter Gade-Christensen in the quarter-finals, pulled through 21-12, 12-21, 21-18.
World champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan succumbed to the overwhelming pressure of hauling Indonesia back level and were beaten 19-21, 21-18, 10-21 to the in-form Jung Jae-sung-Lee Yong-dae.

The usually reliable Indonesian pair were clearly affected by the demands from the home fans and failed to get their normal game going.

Coach Hendrawan said: “Nothing went right for us today. They panicked after allowing the Koreans to build a huge lead in the deciding game.

“The harder they tried, the more mistakes they made and I am very disappointed with their performance tonight.”

It was left to Indonesian superstar Taufik Hidayat to try and save the hosts from elimination. But Taufik, who was unimpressive in all his earlier matches, played below par again and went down meekly 13-21, 14-21 against Lee Hyun-il.

Hyun-il sealed the victory with a deft drop shot and was promptly mobbed by his team-mates, who ran onto court to hoist the player on their shoulders.
Korean team manager Kim Jong-soo said: “I am happy to be the first team manager to guide South Korea into the final.

“Now I am looking forward to creating history again on Sunday by becoming the first Korean manager to lift the Thomas Cup.

“Our women's team have entered the Uber Cup final five times.
“It will be the first for the men and I am very proud of the team's achievement in getting us this far.”

He added that Sung-hwan's win over Sony in the opening match was crucial and it boost the team's confidence tremendously.

“Our target was to win in both the doubles and take one point in either one of the first two singles. But it turned out better for us when both Sung-hwan and Hyun-il delivered victories in their matches,” said Jong-soo.

For the record, the South Korean women's team lost in all their five appearances in the Uber Cup final.

Their team this time were eliminated by China in the semi-final on Thursday.

really heart breaking for us MAS supporters:(
its so close!!!

NST - 19May2008

Kim Hock: Focus on singles

NATIONAL chief coach Yap Kim Hock strongly believes that Malaysia must improve in the singles to have any chance of winning the Thomas Cup.
Kim Hock said the main reason Malaysia failed in Jakarta was because of the lack in depth in the second and third singles.

This makes sense as it was apparent that veteran Wong Choong Hann could not sustain the pace against his younger opponents in the second singles while Hafiz Hashim was a total wreck in the third.

The coach said currently the national singles squad do not have shuttlers of equal standard. "Look at (Lee) Chong Wei who is the World No 2. The gap between him and the other singles players in the national squad is very wide," Kim Hock said in Jakarta yesterday.

And Kim Hock will be hoping that the coaching committee will prepare a comprehensive programme to prepare the talented younger shuttlers from now.
"If the BA of Malaysia (BAM) is serious about winning the Cup in the 2010 Kuala Lumpur edition, the association must start making attempts to prepare the shuttlers for it.

-- I though once KBH lost in 2006 ThomasCup to Denmark, they should raise young talented players for 2008 thomas cup. Too late now.....

"There are no two ways about it. So either we start working on the younger talent or just forget about winning the title. For now, we have depth in the doubles to last us through the next edition but not in the singles.

" However, Kim Hock said if the programme does take root, the BAM must ensure a proper coach is hired to guide the players.

"It will be pointless if we hire the wrong coach. We need a good coach to guide the shuttlers as they still lack basic techniques and skill.

-- I though once LeeMao left year ago, they should hire another quality coach to replace him, too late again.....

This is why I did not field (reserve shuttler) Arif Latif for any of the ties in the Thomas Cup. No doubt he's talented but lacks the characteristics I mentioned earlier," said the coach.

-- Why you pick Arif Latif, the player you did not plan to field at all in the 2008 Thomas Cup, you can pick LSS, Roslin.....who you can field when need.....too late again.


Among the shuttlers Kim Hock singled as having potential are Arif Latif, Kuan Beng Hong, Tan Chun Seang and Chong Wei Feng.

"These players must be given exposure at the highest level. We cannot keep sending them to small tournaments any longer."

On Hafiz's playing future, Kim Hock said the shuttler is very talented but needs to change his attitude both on and off the court.

Regarding the decision on the two doubles to feature in the Beijing Olympics, Kim Hock said it will be finalised before May 30.

"We need to analyse the performances of the three pairs who played in the Thomas Cup before making a decision." The pairs in the running for the two spots Beijing spots are World No 3 Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah and Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari.

--about KKK/TBH, one game play bad doesn't mean they will play bad the next game, look at China MD2, they play badly when again MAS pair, but the next day, they play very well when again KOR.

"Among the shuttlers Kim Hock singled as having potential are Arif Latif, Kuan Beng Hong, Tan Chun Seang and Chong Wei Feng."

KBH :eek::eek: :o:o:o

"Among the shuttlers Kim Hock singled as having potential are Arif Latif, Kuan Beng Hong, Tan Chun Seang and Chong Wei Feng."

KBH :eek::eek: :o:o:o

4get abt kuan benghong! its very obvious he was juz a n average player and 4ever will be. Much was expected of him after Tokyo but like bad comedy, he has nothing significant to prove in years after dat.

juz look at Chen Jin, already All-England Champ and has beaten almost all top players b4 including lee chong wei.

Here's the news taken from ANTARA News Agency (English version) :

05/25/08 09:06
RI Uber team get Rp1 billion worth bonus



Jakarta, (ANTARA News) - The 10-member Indonesia`s Uber team on Saturday received a Rp1 billion worth cash bonus for their success in surpassing the target set for the recent Uber Cup.

The bonus was handed directly by Chairman of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) and would be divided based on their contribution in the team.

The Indonesia`s Uber team successfully reached to the final round, the first for the last ten years. However, the team failed to grab the Uber Cup after being defeated by China in the final round. The Indonesia`s Uber team was previously set only to reach the semifinal round only.

"The men`s Thomas team did not get any bonus as it failed to reach the target set," head of the building section of PBSI Lius Pongoh said.

The Indonesian men`s team was set to reach the final round but it was defeated by the South Korean team in the semifinal round.

The Uber and Thomas Cup was held here on May 11-18.China won both the Uber and Thomas Cups in the event.(*) COPYRIGHT © 2008

Badminton rule change for Thomas and Uber Cup to prevent tanking
Fri Sep 12, 2:02 AM ET



The Badminton World Federation (BWF) are set to introduce new rules for the Thomas and Uber Cup to prevent further controversies after South Korea threw matches at this year's tournament.

The showpiece event in Jakarta in May was overshadowed when South Korean team manager Kim Jong-Soo said their tactics in the Thomas Cup were to avoid winning their group.

The reason, he said, was to give them a more favourable quarter-final draw. They duly lost to England and Malaysia, fielding weakened teams.

Currently, the tournament is structured so the top finisher in each three-team group receives a bye to the quarter-finals, while the other two play an elimination game to make the last eight.

The BWF acknowledged the controversy marred the reputation of the sport's premier team event and that tanking cheated spectators.

BWF secretary general Stuart Borrie told Malaysia's Star newspaper Friday that they planned to close the loophole in the rules.

"We cannot blame the coaches or the team managers. There was a set of rules and the teams merely saw the opportunity of making the best use of them," he said.

"The BWF and their members want this to be reviewed. We are looking at having a draw process halfway through the finals to ensure that teams do not get the chance to deliberately lose their ties."

Borrie added that it was important for the finals to justify their status as the championships that brought out the best in teams.

"We are also concerned that England did not have their best team for the last finals as they wanted to focus on the Beijing Olympics," he said.

"The Thomas-Uber Cup finals should be the stage for a team to showcase their best. All these will be looked into at the next executive meeting (in Lausanne next month)."

Badminton rule change for Thomas and Uber Cup to prevent tanking
Fri Sep 12, 2:02 AM ET



The Badminton World Federation (BWF) are set to introduce new rules for the Thomas and Uber Cup to prevent further controversies after South Korea threw matches at this year's tournament.

The showpiece event in Jakarta in May was overshadowed when South Korean team manager Kim Jong-Soo said their tactics in the Thomas Cup were to avoid winning their group.

The reason, he said, was to give them a more favourable quarter-final draw. They duly lost to England and Malaysia, fielding weakened teams.

Currently, the tournament is structured so the top finisher in each three-team group receives a bye to the quarter-finals, while the other two play an elimination game to make the last eight.

The BWF acknowledged the controversy marred the reputation of the sport's premier team event and that tanking cheated spectators.

BWF secretary general Stuart Borrie told Malaysia's Star newspaper Friday that they planned to close the loophole in the rules.

"We cannot blame the coaches or the team managers. There was a set of rules and the teams merely saw the opportunity of making the best use of them," he said.

"The BWF and their members want this to be reviewed. We are looking at having a draw process halfway through the finals to ensure that teams do not get the chance to deliberately lose their ties."

Borrie added that it was important for the finals to justify their status as the championships that brought out the best in teams.

"We are also concerned that England did not have their best team for the last finals as they wanted to focus on the Beijing Olympics," he said.

"The Thomas-Uber Cup finals should be the stage for a team to showcase their best. All these will be looked into at the next executive meeting (in Lausanne next month)."
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A search reveals a similar article in the Times of India (http://sports.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Other_Sports/Badminton/Rule_change_for_Thomas_and_Uber_Cup_to_prevent_tan king_/articleshow/3474351.cms).