Lee Zii Jia is in for another grueling test of his physical and mental endurance as he prepares to take on two qualifying matches at the Orleans Masters, less than three hours apart.

The world number 96 will first play India’s S. Sankar in the opening round at 5.40pm local time (estimate), and if he wins will go on to play his second qualifying match shortly after.

The 27-year-old has to play in the qualifiers due to his low ranking, and he has learnt how much it can take a toll on his body just to reach the men’s singles main draw.

Last week, Lee endured a similar journey at the Swiss Open having played two matches in the qualifiers before he successfully made it to the main draw.

But the professional shuttler ran out of steam in the first round and suffered a straight game defeat against Singapore’s Jason Teh.

Lee will be out to make amends and go on a much better run compared to last week, especially since this Super 300 tournament is the final event before the Thomas Cup next month.

Justin Hoh, ranked 38th, is in the main draw and will face Chinese Taipei shuttler Chi Yu-jen.

Other Malaysian shuttlers in action include women’s singles shuttlers K.Letshaana and Wong Ling Ching, Ong Xin Yee-Carmen Ting (women’s doubles), Aaron Tai-Kang Khai Xing (men’s doubles) and Wong Tien Ci-Lim Chiew Sien (mixed doubles).