Chong Wei leads team-building session ahead of Russia battle
Chong Wei played a different role on Saturday, leading his teammates at a team-building session ahead of their Thomas Cup battle against Russia in Bangkok.
The 36-year-old former World No 1 said the session achieved its goal, as the national players didn’t hide their feelings but spoke from the heart.
“After dinner yesterday (Saturday), the 10 of us, and our three sparring partners, met up for a session, just to talk about things and our feelings ahead of our opening tie.
“Some players are raring to go, while some are still trying to get that tournament feeling. That’s good, because as seniors Wee Kiong (assistant team captain) and I are there to advise them.
“Only we know how hard we’ve been training these past couple of months, so I have advised the players not to wait until the last minute should they need anything.
“As you know, it gets really hot in the training hall, and some players have complained of body aches. My message to them is go get a massage early. We only have four masseurs while there are 20 players altogether,” said Chong Wei, who is the team skipper, after training at the Hippocampus Badminton Hall here yesterday.
Chong Wei, who had indicated that it might be his last Thomas Cup appearance, confirmed he will take to the court today as Malaysia’s first singles against Russia in a Group D tie.
“Well yes, it’s an important match, I will play in the opening tie against Russia.
“Russia this year are very balanced, so it’s crucial for us to do well against them, since only the top two teams from the group make it to the knockout stage.
“Either way, I have told the players to play with heart. Give everything you’ve got and don’t worry about the outcome,” added Chong Wei, who will likely face World No 51 Vladimir Malkov today.
Malaysia, who last won the Thomas Cup in 1992, are also in the same group as defending champions Denmark and African champions Algeria.