Over-reliance on Zii Jia a bane, says Rexy

Malaysia's recent performance in the Thomas Cup Finals reflects a concerning pattern of over-reliance on Lee Zii Jia in singles matches. This dependency was highlighted by their defeat to China, where Zii Jia's loss in the first singles match significantly impacted the team's chances. Despite commendable efforts from other players like Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik in doubles, the team couldn't secure the necessary points for victory.

The absence of a strong second singles player, exacerbated by Ng Tze Yong's injury, further underscores Malaysia's singles depth issue. Jun Hao's loss in the second singles match showcased this vulnerability, emphasizing the need for additional strong singles players beyond Zii Jia. Additionally, the decision to select Justin Hoh over Cheam June Wei in the third singles, although not materialized due to the match's conclusion, hints at the ongoing search for viable alternatives.

National coaching director Rexy Mainaky rightly acknowledges the importance of developing multiple solid singles players to alleviate the pressure on Zii Jia. Looking ahead, the emphasis on nurturing talents like Jun Hao and Justin becomes paramount for Malaysia's future success in the Thomas Cup and international badminton. This strategic shift is crucial for Malaysia to reclaim its position as a dominant force in the tournament, with its last victory dating back to 1992.