Thomas Cup Finals: Park Joo-bong thinks Malaysian Singles will face trouble against Indonesia
The badminton legend Park Joo-bong of Korea believes that it will be a huge task for Malaysia to surpass Indonesia in Singles event if they meet in Thomas Cup Finals that are set to be held in Wuhan from May 20-27.
According to draw, Malaysia has been placed in Group C while Indonesia is in Group A and if Malaysia ends group stage as top team then both countries will meet in quarter-final round.
It will be their first meeting after eight years as they were up against each other in 2004 when Malaysia had to face 1-3 defeat in round of eight.
Former Olympics Champion Joo-bong thinks this expected clash of the titans will be feast for the eyes as both squads have a nice blend of experience and passion.
However, he also added that Malaysia will have to play with full force on its Singles flank as they may face trouble against the Indonesians. The Korean maestro gave a detailed analysis by taking them one by one.
Joo Bong said, “I would give the first point to Malaysia. Chong Wei is a better player than Simon and should win the first singles without much problem.”
Apart from Lee Chong Wei, Malaysian Singles line-up includes Daren Liew and Hafiz Hashim while the opposite side will have the veteran Taufik Hidayat and youngsters Tommy Sugiarto and Dionysius Hayom Rumbaka.
Joo-bong, who is also head coach of Japan, clearly gave his vote of confidence to Taufik Hidayat in second Singles tie as he declared former World champion far better than young Daren.
He said, “There is no doubt that Taufik is a much superior player than Liew Daren. It will be difficult for Malaysia to dream of a point in the second singles.”
If it happens then the both teams will be locked in tough situation and third Singles encounter will become consequential.
In third tie, the seasoned shuttler Hafiz Hashim will try to raise Malaysian flag by overpowering young but spirited challengers Tommy or Rumbaka.
However, Joo-bong believes Indonesians have a slight edge in final contest as they look well in shape and this may create huge difference.
He also added that a 2-1 score after Singles encounters will turn Doubles event crucial and both contenders will have to switch on the best to ensure favourable results.
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