KUALA LUMPUR: National sepak takraw team captain Farhan Adam has given his assurance that he has no plans to retire from the sport anytime soon.
The 35-year-old has been an integral part of the national squad for over a decade now and in May, together with Syahir Rosdi and Azlan Alias, won the inter-regu title at the World Cup, upsetting favourites Thailand in the final at the Titiwangsa Stadium.
Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia is mulling hosting the inaugural Asia Cup in Malaysia next year, and Farhan is keen to once again compete in front of Malaysian fans.
He is, however, aware that he must fight for his place in national coach Ahmad Jais Baharun's squad.
"I will continue playing for as long as I am capable of doing so, I have no plans to retire yet," said Farhan recently.
"If Malaysia hosts the Asia Cup next year, I hope I will be selected for the team. I will give it my best shot.
"Same goes for the other tournaments next season. The (Thailand) Sea Games will also held next year, which also a key competition for us.
"We have a lot of young players coming up the ranks now so the Sea Games will be an important test for us.
"Playing against Thailand is never easy, especially on their home turf, but we are always up to the challenge."
The feeder added that he is keen to help guide the younger players in the squad.
"To be real contenders in the team event category we have to be strong across all three regus," said Farhan.
"I believe my regu (with Syahir and Azlan) have the responsibility of guiding the younger ones so we can achieve greater strength in depth."
Farhan, Syahir and Azlan defeated their Thai counterparts in the opening match during the final of the team event at the World Cup.
Thailand, however, showed their superior strength in depth by winning the next two matches to claim a 2-1 win.