KUALA LUMPUR: Former men's doubles world champions Takuro Hoki-Yugo Kobayashi are set to make their highly anticipated return to competitive action after being named in Japan's 17-member squad for the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China, from April 27-May 4.

Hoki-Kobayashi, last seen in action in November 2024, have been instrumental in Japan's recent Sudirman Cup campaigns, finishing as runners-up in 2021 and reaching the semi-finals in 2023.

Their return strengthens Japan's lineup and presents a formidable challenge for Malaysia in Group C.

The Japanese duo hold a dominant head-to-head record against Malaysia's top men's doubles pairs, boasting victories over all three possible combinations - Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (8-2), Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (3-1) and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (2-0).

Given the crucial role of men's doubles in Malaysia's past Sudirman Cup ties, overcoming Hoki-Kobayashi could be pivotal in determining their group-stage outcome.

Although this is only a group-stage clash, a win against Japan would enhance Malaysia's chances of topping Group C and avoiding the big guns in the quarter-finals.