Perak gunning for Razak Cup hat-trick
KUALA LUMPUR: Perak, parading a mixed team of seniors and juniors, will gun for their third consecutive title in the Razak Cup, which begins at the National Hockey Stadium tomorrow.
Defender Syed Syafiq Syed Cholan, who opted out of the national team due to studies, will lead the Silver State.
Perak also have the services of former national captain Sukri Mutalib and ex-national defender Izad Hakimi Jamaluddin.
Perak coach M. Jagatheesan said they had retained 70 per cent of last year’s team.
“Having Syed Syafiq is a big boost for us as he will not only marshal the backline but will also deliver goals from penalty corners.”
Perak, who won the title six times, are drawn in Group A with Terengganu, Kuala Lumpur, Armed Forces, Negri Sembilan and Johor.
Group B consists of Pahang, Melaka, Police, Selangor, Penang, Perlis and Singapore.
Perak open their campaign against Johor tomorrow.
Jagatheesan said his team would face a tough time against Johor.
“But I am confident that my players will get a good result.”
Nine teams will feature in the women’s competition, with defending champions KL drawn in Group A with Melaka, Selangor and Terengganu while Group B comprises Pahang, Penang, N. Sembilan, Armed Forces and Singapore.
Pahang, who won the Malaysia Games gold medal last month, will start as favourites.
NST
