China chase sixth Sudirman Cup

GLASGOW, June 17 (Reuters) China start hot favourites to retain their Sudirman Cup world team badminton title in today's final against big Asian rivals Indonesia.

The Chinese made the final with a 3-0 win over South Korea although world champion Lin Dan dropped a game against world number 83 Shon Seung-mo, much to the distress of coach Li Yongbo.

He threatened to drop Lin, who lost on Thursday in a group match against Malaysian former world number one Lee Chong Wei.

''He's not showing the best side of himself,'' Li complained to reporters after Saturday's result.

But when the team sheets were published late today Lin was named, though he may not have to play.

Since rival coaches could not agree on an order of play, the issue was decided in a draw and the men's singles, where Lin is due to meet Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat, came out last.

Fans would be deprived of a stellar clash between fierce rivals Lin and Hidayat if China wrapped up the opening three matches in the first-to-three final.

Indonesia, who fought back to beat England 3-2 in the semis, will be making their seventh appearance in the final. China, five-times winners, are in the final for the seventh time in succession and beat Indonesia in the last final in 2005.

REUTERS BJR KP1426