GLASGOW, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese national badminton team, defending champion of Sudirman Cup World Mixed badminton Championship, arrived at Glasgow on Thursday with a sole aim of defending the title.

    The Chinese team, holder of Thomas Cup, Uber Cup and Sudirman Cup, arrived at Glasgow late on Thursday. All the shuttlers and officials looked tired due to an eleven-hour flight and seven-hour time difference.

    The Chinese squad consists of seventeen shuttlers including world top ranked player Lin Dan in men's singles and his girlfriend Xie Xingfang, who are joined by Olympic women's singles champion Zhang Ning.

    Li Yongbo, head coach of China team, came to Glasgow on Tuesday and kept a high profile, saying the only aim for China at the tournament was to retain the title.

    His words were echoed by Zhong Bo, coach of men 's singles players. Zhong said: "We look forward to the sixth win."

    According to the schedule, China will start practice at 10:00 on Friday morning, and they will meet Thailand, England and Malaysia in the group stage.