PETALING JAYA: Defending champions Denmark will be Malaysia’s main obstacle in the group stages of the Thomas Cup Finals.

In a draw made in Bangkok on Thursday, Malaysia have been drawn in Group D together with Denmark, Russia and Algeria.

It is certainly a favourable draw for Malaysia as they avoid all the top Asian nations in the preliminary stages of the Finals which is held in Bangkok from May 20-27.

It is also a chance for Malaysia to avenge their semi-final defeat to Denmark at the 2016 edition in Kunshan, China.

Meanwhile powerhouse China are placed in Group A together with India, France and Australia while 2014 winners Japan head Group C with Taiwan, Germany and Hong Kong.

Group B will be the trickiest group as it features 13-time winners Indonesia, South Korea, Canada and hosts Thailand.

Malaysia however were not so lucky in the Uber Cup.

The women have got their work cut out for them as they are drawn with defending champions China, Indonesia and France in Group D.

Favourites Japan head up Group A with India, Canada and Australia while Thailand are placed in Group B with Taiwan, Germany and Hong Kong.

Group C comprises South Korea, Denmark, Russia and Mauritius.