No sign of hope!

Let's face it - when Lee Chong Wei retires after the Olympics or some time next year, Malaysia will be no where to be seen in the badminton scene.

His replacement

Liew Daren

The 25-year-old is far from what Chong Wei is or ever was in recent years.

There is no one ready to step up, besides Zulfadli Zulkifli. But that boy is still only 18 and will need lots of nurturing despite already winning the World and Asian junior titles last year.

BAM secretary is aware of the situation and disappointingly admitted that it will take two to three for a new talent to emerged.

Well that's only singles you may say. but what about the doubles department.

Sadly, after showing all sorts of promise in the past, Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong have only showed signed of a fall and have admitted to needing soul searching.

Read Trouble in paradise in today's Mailsport for a wrap-up on the recently concluded Malaysia Open SuperSeries.

They surely need help.

pic taken from The Star

Once upon time the above picture gave Malaysia hope that it could rule the doubles department for years to come.

That remained a fantasy as they have failed to win the heart of fans since winning the Malaysia Open in 2010.

The 2012 edition was no different. Understandably Koo Kien Keat was utterly disappointed.

"I've been soul searching for the last one year but nothing has help me. I need help. Hopefully there is someone out there who can help me," said Koo Kien Keat.

"This can't be going on but it has and it is very frustrating."

"We have to find back our rhythm and confidence of the past. That is the only way." 

Koo-Tan, Malaysia's top ranked pair went down to Korea's third ranked pair Kim Ki Jung-Kim Sa Rang 21-16, 18-21, 21-16.

They still have time on their side but they have to act quick.... or else what started of as a fairy-tale may have a bitter ending.