Liew Daren said Zii Jia was not only free from physical issues but also fully focused on a more intensive training programme to ensure optimal performance.

“Yes, he (Zii Jia) is 100% recovered (from his ankle injury),” he said at Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) here today.

He said he could already see significant improvement in Zii Jia during the second training session with players from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), following his first training session on Wednesday.

“The most important thing here (at ABM) is that there are so many sparring opportunities. It’s good for him because he needs to play against all types of players,” he said.

Regarding the offer of a health check from the National Sports Institute, relayed by BAM performance committee chairman Lee Chong Wei, Daren expressed gratitude but said Zii Jia, ranked world No 83, was in the best shape due to his own team’s efforts.

National men’s singles coach K Yogendran, who is handling Zii Jia’s training at ABM, said he could see the shuttler giving his best in every training session.

“What is important is that he has a good environment to train in, and the training programme is running smoothly. That’s why it’s important for us to support one another,” said Yogendran.

He added that Zii Jia’s presence at ABM benefited the younger shuttlers, who look up to him as a source of inspiration.

“I think it actually benefits everyone… it benefits Zii Jia, it benefits our young players, and it benefits Malaysian badminton. That’s the most important thing,” he said.

The 2026 Thomas Cup Finals will be held in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24 to May 3.