National men’s singles player Lee Zii Jia has requested a week to consider an offer from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to join the national squad for the Thomas Cup next April.
BAM Performance Committee chairman Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei confirmed the update after meeting and discussing the matter with Zii Jia at the Malaysia Badminton Academy (ABM) in Bukit Kiara yesterday.
Chong Wei noted that while a final decision from the former All England champion has not yet been received, the discussions have at least provided insight into the player’s current condition and fitness level.
“So far, everything is good. We have spoken with Zii Jia and his coaches, Liew Daren and Goh Jin Wei. He will give his response, possibly within a week,” Chong Wei said. “At least now we know how he’s doing. Zii Jia mentioned he is not yet at 100%, so we hope he can return to full fitness.”
Earlier, BAM extended invitations to Zii Jia and men’s doubles pair Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani to form a strong team aimed at ending Malaysia’s more than three-decade wait in the Thomas Cup.
Chong Wei added that Zii Jia’s inclusion in the squad is highly anticipated, as his extensive experience at the top level could serve as an inspiration and boost for other players.
Meanwhile, the call-up of Jin Wei was explained as a recommendation from National Singles Director Kenneth Jonassen, who believes Jin Wei is capable of taking on the role of third singles for the Uber Cup squad.
