Malaysia’s hopes of springing a surprise in the SEA Games men’s team event may ultimately rest on one man — Leong Jun Hao.
Despite his inconsistent form on the World Tour, former international Datuk James Selvaraj believes the world No. 29 remains Malaysia’s most crucial weapon as the team prepares for next week’s campaign in Bangkok.
Jun Hao has shown before that he thrives in team environments. At last year’s Thomas Cup in Chengdu, he delivered four victories and only fell to China’s world No. 3 Li Shifeng in the semi-finals. Malaysia now hopes he can replicate that level once again.
With Indonesia entering as favourites and Thailand boosted by home support and world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Malaysia will rely heavily on their elite doubles pairs — world No. 2 Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik and world No. 5 Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun — while the singles lineup consists of Jun Hao, world No. 38 Justin Hoh and world No. 4 Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin.
“Jun Hao can be relied upon in team events. If he gives us a winning start, our doubles can take it from there,” said James.
He added that Justin and Aidil remain inconsistent, making Jun Hao’s performance even more pivotal, especially with Malaysia’s last men’s team gold dating back to 2005.
With the draw set to determine whether Malaysia face Indonesia or Thailand in the semis, Jun Hao’s ability to deliver under pressure may be the key to keeping Malaysia’s gold-medal hopes alive.
