Chong Wei’s health won’t dampen Thomas Cup spirits, says Shabery
PUTRAJAYA, May 14 — Thomas Cup squad skipper Datuk Lee Chong Wei’s health will not dampen the spirits of the team heading to China for the Thomas & Uber Cup finals.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said athletes or players falling ill is a common occurrence and cannot be avoided.
“Athletes are also human. At times they can give 100 per cent and at times they can be down with sickness. However, we will pray that (Chong Wei) recovers before the start of the competition,” he told reporters here today.
Chong Wei (picture), citing flu, did not travel with the Thomas Cup squad that left for Guangzhou, China yesterday for weeklong training before heading to Wuhan for the Thomas Cup finals from May 20-27.
Apart from Chong Wei, second singles player Liew Daren was also reported to be unwell.
Chong Wei, Liew Daren, Hafiz Hashim, Chong Wei Feng head the Malaysian Thomas Cup team’s singles challenge while Koo Kien Kiat/Tan Boon Heong, Goh Wei Shem/Lim Khim Wah and Hoon Thien How/Tan Wee Kiong will play in the doubles. — Bernama
