Muhammad Hafiz Hashim determined to perform well in Thomas Cup Qualifying Round
Malaysia’s veteran player, Muhammad Hafiz Hashim, is quite determined to perform well and help his team to win the Thomas Cup Qualifying Round, which is set to take place from February 13-19 in Macau.
Hafiz Hashim, who has been placed at number 33 in Men’s Singles world placements, is no more under the charge of Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) as he is an independent shuttler and participates in events of his own choice.
However, through his better performance he has made his way in the national squad and will play the second Men’s Singles fight in the Thomas Cup qualifying matches.
In the 2010 Thomas Cup Finals, Hafiz Hashim failed to perform well against Japan and the team lost to Japanese shuttlers by a margin of 2-3.
However, this time he is confident to live up to the expectations as it will be his last appearance in the Thomas Cup Qualifying Round.
Hafiz Hashim has been serving Malaysia for almost 15 years and has won many titles for the country. He has an extensive experience of playing at international level and knows how to handle pressure at crucial stages.
In order to find a place in the 2012 Thomas Cup Finals, Malaysia need to win all matches in the qualifying round and all shuttlers need to perform their hundred percent to make this cut.
Hafiz Hashim is expected to face Indonesia’s Taufik Hidayat, China’s Chen Jin, Korea’s Park Sung Hwan and Japan’s Kenichi Tago.
Hafiz said, "I have never beaten Chen Jin and Taufik but have won against the other players. This is my last appearance in the Thomas Cup and I want to do my part and help Malaysia qualify for the final rounds. It is unthinkable for Malaysia not to be part of the final round and I will give it my best shot."
He also added, "I didn't play well in the last Thomas Cup but I also have fond memories of the event, especially the 2002 edition where I contributed a point in Malaysia's 3-1 victory over China.”
The competition will be quite tough as all top shuttlers from Asian countries will be there in Macau to find a place in the Thomas Cup Finals.
Hafiz Hashim said that if Lee Chong Wei and Koo Kien Keat – Tan Boon Heong earn the opening two points, he will have a less pressure and good chance to win his fight.
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