Japan
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China’s biggest challenge could come from the Japanese team, who is placed in Group D. Having lost the 2014 final to China, Japan will be upbeat to reverse the result this time. And they have every reason to feel confident to regain the title they last won in 1981.
They have three singles players within the top 12, headed by the fifth-ranked Nozomi Okuhara. The 21-year-old has been a sensation of late and has captured the prestigious Dubai World Superseries Finals as well as the All England Championships titles. More than that, she has got the better of each of the top four Chinese players in the last five months.
Besides, Japan a strong contingent in doubles as well. All England winners Misaki Matsutomo and Ayaka Takahashi lead the world rankings and they are joined by two other Japanese teams in the top 10. Thus, there is no doubt that Japan has one of the strongest all-round teams this time.
