KUALA LUMPUR: They may no longer be together, but Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei could still be part of the national team for the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China, on April 27-May 4.

The world No. 4 mixed doubles pair parted ways last week with the consent of the BA of Malaysia (BAM) due to relationship issues.

National mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto has indicated that Malaysia could name six mixed doubles players for the tournament, with Tang Jie and Ee Wei still very much in contention.

World No. 3 Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai and world No. 14 Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin are almost certain to make the squad.

However, Nova clarified that while Tang Jie and Ee Wei may not play together, their versatility could be a tactical asset for the team.

"They are no longer a pair, but Tang Jie and Ee Wei can still be useful in the Sudirman Cup," Nova said.

"They have the ability to partner other players. They will be part of the team individually and will be considered if we decide to field a scratch pair.

"We still have time before finalising the squad, and Tang Jie and Ee Wei remain on the long list."

Nova added that the final squad could be decided this weekend, though the coaching staff may opt to wait until after the Badminton Asian Championships in Ningbo, China (April 8-13).

The deadline to submit the final Sudirman Cup squad is April 14, with teams allowed to name a maximum of 20 players.

Ee Wei has previously partnered Pang Ron (mixed doubles) and Pearly Tan (women's doubles), while Tang Jie has played with various partners in mixed doubles.

A potential pairing with Su Yin is not out of the question.

However, given Malaysia's tough draw in Group C at the Sudirman Cup with Japan, France and Australia, the team are unlikely to experiment too much.

Soon Huat-Shevon are expected to remain the main mixed doubles pair for the tournament.