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China cruise into Sudirman Cup quarters

Xinhua, May 13, 2015 Adjust font size:

Favorites China met little challenge against Thailand on Tuesday by winning 5-0 to enter the quarter-finals at the Sudirman Cup.

London Olympic champion Cai Yun/Fu Haifeng won the opening men's doubles over Bodin Issara/Pakkawat Vilailak, 14-21, 21-14, 21-19.

"I'm a reserve player now. Based on the team's needs, I can pair with anyone," said Cai Yun, the 35-year-old captain of the defending champions team.

Although the veteran pair had few chances to compete in Rio Olympics due to age and fatigue, they are still popular with Chinese fans, hailed as a combination of "Wind and Cloud".

"Actually, we could still pair up in some team events. But in individual, there is no possibility," said Cai.

Wang Yihan made it 2-0 by beating Busanan Ongbumrungpan 21-16, 21-15 in the women's singles, and world No. 1 Chen Long sealed the victory in the men's singles, 21-14, 21-8.

"Winning is the most important. It doesn't really matter who plays the singles, Lin Dan or me," said Chen, referring to his teammate "Super Dan", the world and Olympic champion.

As China could meet Malaysia in the knockout stage after both team had ensured the last-eight berth, a duel between Lin Dan and former world No, 1 Lee is widely expected.

Lee Chong Wei had a strong comeback by leading Malaysia to consecutive victories over South Korea and India after serving an eight-month ban for doping.

Chen Long is ready for a clash with Lee.

"I have played against him 18 times. I know that everyone would see a match between Lin and Lee," said Chen.

"If I am drawn against him, I will play to my best. I had a better head-to-head record. Anyway, Lee's comeback added drama to the men's singles."

Chen said the Malaysian still needed time to find his rhythm and touch.

"I think there is few changes in Lee's playing style. After all, he has been away from the game for several months," added Chen.

In the symbolic last two rubbers, Ma Jin/Tang Yuanting won the women's doubles and Liu Cheng/Zhao Yunlei had the mixed. Endi