Thursday, October 3, 2013

Mix-n-match for Perth 9s

MALAYSIA will be sending a mixed men’s side for the International Super Series Hockey 9s in Perth from Oct 17-20.
     Defender Ahmad Kazamirul, midfielder Harwinder Singh, goalkeeper Khairulnizam Ibrahim and defender Amin Rahim will be among the motley-crew for the 9s hockey tournament.
   All the above players did not play any part in major tournaments this year, but have been given another chance to prove themselves after their performance in the recent Razak Cup in Kuantan.
    Some of the regular national players added to strengthen the squad are striker Tengku Ahmad Tajudin, No 2 goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin, midfielder Shahrun Nabil and defenders Baljit Singh and Razie Rahim.
    Malaysia will also send a women’s side which will compete against world no 2 Argentina, Australia and Canada.
    The men’s tournament will see Paul Revington’s side pitting their skills against world No 2 Australia, Pakistan and Argentina.
     Australia has been in the forefront of promoting hockey 9s which will have nine instead of 11 players a-side, for a faster and more open field.
    The tournament’s modified format will also have a larger goal-mouth, and 20 minute halves to provide the action in short, sharp, exciting bursts.