Well, it's always possible albeit slim considering that China has decided to send its top 3 players against USA. Amy/Lily vs CM/SYS, Wu Yue vs LSW, Lily vs SYS, Wu Yue vs CM and Amy vs LSW.
Groups =/= Quarters so Groups A and B do not mean first half (unless I'm wrong?). In the second knock-out stage, winners from Group A and B will be allocated into positions 1 and 8 (i.e. different halves). Japan will only be in the same half as China (assuming they top Group A) if they are not...
The November rankings prove that T2 makes such a whole world of difference. ZYL, WMY and DN are basically clinging onto their positions as 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Malaysia to maintain their top 6 positions.
Ultimately, I believe the issue lies with the new ranking system which prioritises participation above all (and hence the sometimes ridiculous number of entries) and further contributes to the current Chinese hegemony more than anything else. Ironically, it was a revision that some opine were...
I believe T2 will determine which of the Chinese women (CM, LSW and SYS) will be WR#1 in Dec. CM and SYS will lose points due to their absence from Austrian Open while LSW has a good chance of raising her points with World Cup and Austrian Open. Depends on how important this title is to them...