Determined to go one step further after finishing runners-up to South Korea in the previous edition of the Asia Cup in Jakarta, the Malaysian hockey team arrived in Patna on Saturday for the upcoming edition, scheduled in Rajgir. Skipper Marhan Jalil made it clear that the team’s ambition is to go the distance, but cautioned his team against the home side.
“It is very exciting to be here in Rajgir. We look forward to having a good tournament, and we have prepared well. Hosts India will be a tough team to beat because they have played so many top teams in Pro League and have the right experience and exposure in international hockey,” said Jalil, underlining India’s credentials as one of the favourites.
The captain also pointed out that defending champions Korea remain a serious threat.
“Korea will also be a good team to watch out for. We played them earlier this year, and they are looking sharp. In all, we look forward to a good tournament, and our first aim will be to make it to the Super 4s,” he said.
Malaysia head coach Sarjit Kundan echoed the optimism, thanking the organisers for their hospitality and stressing the importance of long-term development.
“Firstly, we are grateful for the warm welcome, and we are happy to be here early and get a few warm-up games. We are a young team building towards the 2028 Olympics, and most important for us is the Asian Games next year. I am hopeful they will play well.”
“Before the Nations Cup, we travelled to Australia and Korea. After this, we have the Sultan Azlan Shah with all the good teams going to be there. In this tournament, we just want to play well. We are ranked No.2 in the event, and hopefully we are on the podium,” Sarjit added.
Malaysia, placed in Pool B alongside Korea, Bangladesh, and Chinese Taipei, will open their campaign against Bangladesh on August 29. Pool A consists of India, Japan, China, and Kazakhstan.