Semi-retired Lin Dan comes back to help China create history in Thomas Cup
Superstar returns looking for a record sixth straight victory at tournament in New Delhi
Semi-retired superstar Lin Dan will return to the courts in a bid to create more badminton history as China go for a record sixth straight Thomas Cup win in New Delhi from Sunday.
Dominant China are the overwhelming favourites for both the men's event and the Uber Cup for women, which also takes place at the Siri Fort complex in the Indian capital until May 25.
Lin, arguably the greatest player of all time with five world, two Olympic and five all-England titles under his belt, enjoys cult status despite his now-limited appearances on the circuit.
You take Lin lightly at your own peril. Never write him off
The 30-year-old left-hander came out of an eight-month lay-off to win the China Masters and Asian titles last month, indicating his skills had not diminished and he still remained the man to beat.
With China poised to surpass former powerhouse Indonesia's five successive Cup wins between 1994 and 2002, Lin was picked for the trip to New Delhi even though his ranking is a lowly 58th.
Lin has been entered as China's fourth singles player behind number two Chen Long, Du Pengyu and Tian Houwei, but is widely expected to be pushed ahead to third.
India's coach Pullela Gopichand said Lin's presence showed how seriously China were taking the competition.