Malaysia’s top men’s doubles player Aaron Chia is not getting carried away despite Japan suffering a key setback ahead of their Thomas Cup encounter.
Japan will be without star doubles shuttler Yuta Kobayashi, who pulled out due to injury, but Aaron insists it makes little difference to Malaysia’s approach.
Kobayashi, who usually partners Takuro Hoki, has been a consistent threat to Malaysia, with the Japanese pair holding a strong head-to-head advantage over Aaron and Soh Wooi Yik.
However, Aaron remains focused on the bigger picture — delivering for the team rather than worrying about who lines up on the other side of the net.
“I don’t think it matters. The important thing is for us to give our best. Whoever gets the chance to step on court must deliver,” he said.
Japan have called up Hiroki Midorikawa as a replacement, and he is no easy opponent, currently ranked world No. 20 with partner Kyohei Yamashita.
The upcoming Malaysia-Japan tie on April 29 is expected to be decisive in determining the Group B winners, which could offer a more favourable path in the knockout stages.
Despite the absence of one of Japan’s key players, Aaron’s stance is clear — Malaysia must be ready for any challenge as they chase their long-awaited Thomas Cup triumph.
