KUALA LUMPUR (APRIL 21, 2010): The national trainees preparing for the PROTON-BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals KL 2010 will meet the back-up squads later this month in simulation matches.

Former national chief coach Misbun Sidek said the idea to have simulation matches is not new and getting the Thomas and Uber Cuppers to face off against their understudies is a good training exercise.

“The matches will be opened to the public to make it feel just like a Thomas or Uber Cup tie. There will be five matches, - three singles and two doubles – and we hope the fans will come and make lots of noise,” he said.

“I don’t think BAM have decided where to hold the matches. Personally, I prefer Stadium Negara as it holds many happy memories for badminton. However, we must take into consideration the large crowd and whether it has ample parking.

“Wherever it is, I’m sure, the badminton fans will turn up as the competition is very dear to the public.”

As to who will be selected to carry the nation’s challenge in both cup competitions, Misbun said: “All the coaches have had their say on whom they wish to select and now it is up to the top brass to make the final decision.

“As always, there is a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C and it up to the management to decide which one they think is best suited for our challenge.

“All I can say is that the players are ready and after our motivational camp this weekend, we should be on the right track to face our opponents in both competitions.”

The PROTON-BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals KL 2010 will be held at Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil from May 9-16.