National singles director Kenneth Jonassen says Lee Zii Jia is a crucial asset for the Thomas Cup, though his participation remains unconfirmed.
PROFESSIONAL shuttler Lee Zii Jia will be a crucial asset to Malaysia’s Thomas Cup campaign, according to national singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen.
Jonassen said no new developments have emerged regarding Zii Jia’s availability since initial discussions. He added that any update would be communicated when confirmed.
“So if he is fully fit and committed, then of course, he will be an important piece of the Thomas Cup team,” Jonassen said when met after national team training at Akademi Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara.
“But as you already know, since yesterday I don’t think any news has come so I will just leave it at that.”
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He stated that the final decision rests with the former All England champion. The national camp remains fully focused on its preparations regardless.
“We are preparing the best way possible for all the players to be able to step up,” Jonassen said.
He emphasised the team’s commitment to dreaming big and giving their absolute best effort. “The players know the tall task they are asked, but they are committed to do their very best.”
Jonassen believes that going all out is the key to success, even if the ultimate goal is not achieved. “If you go all out and you come up short, at least you can always say you went all out.”
