BANGKOK – Malaysia’s men’s badminton team began their 2022 Thomas Cup Finals campaign with a bang after thrashing England 5-0 in the first match of Group D at the Impact Arena here today.
Top national singles shuttler and World No.6 Lee Zii Jia gave Malaysia a head-start after defeating England’s Toby Penty 21-10, 21-15 in straight sets.
Next to take the stage was men’s doubles shuttlers Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who triumphed over their 2021 Sudirman Cup opponents Ben Lane-Sean Vendy despite losing the first set.
In the rubber match against Johnnie Torjussen, rising star Ng Tze Yong lived up to his potential with a 21-16, 19-21, 21-11 victory despite suffering an injury during the third set.
Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin continued Malaysia’s momentum by bringing down Rory Easton-Zach Russ 21-13, 21-9.
Leong Jun Hao then rounded up Malaysia’s flawless run by defeating Cholan Kayan 21-11, 21-18 in mere 40 minutes.
Malaysia will face the US in their second match to seal their place in the Final 8 tomorrow following the Americans’ devastating 0-5 loss to hot favourites Japan.
Cover images via Twitter and Facebook/ Badminton Association of Malaysia – BAM
