National indoor hockey team on 'recognition mission' in Porec

KUALA LUMPUR: With no permanent indoor venue and limited financial support, the national indoor hockey team are determined to defy the odds at the World Cup in Porec, Croatia, from Feb 3-9.

Ranked second in Asia, Malaysia are in Pool B with three-time winners Germany, Asian champions Iran and Pan American champions Argentina.

Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal believes a strong performance at the World Cup could boost the team's recognition and funding.

"Malaysia doesn't have a permanent indoor hockey venue, and the national players only receive a minimal training allowance, but they're not complaining," said Subahan today.

"Despite these challenges, the players are motivated to prove themselves against the top teams in Porec."

Subahan added that the team will get a temporary training venue in Bukit Jalil after their World Cup campaign to prepare for the Thailand Sea Games in December.

The players will also help promote "Visit Malaysia 2026" by wearing jerseys emblazoned with the campaign logo during the tournament.

Malaysia will begin their Pool B campaign against Germany on Feb 3, followed by Argentina (Feb 4) and Iran (Feb 6).

Group A features Austria, Croatia, South Africa and Poland, while Group C includes Australia, Belgium, Namibia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

National coach Rodzhanizam Mat Radzi is aiming for a top-eight finish.

"My players are prepared and motivated to achieve a top-eight finish in Porec," he said.

The squad:

Goalkeepers: Khairul Afendy Kamaruzaman, Hazrul Faiz Ahmad Sobri;

Defenders: Najmi Farizal Jazlan, Aslam Hanafiah, Firdaus Omar, Shazril Irwan Azhar;

Midfielders: Izham Azhar, Abdul Khaliq Hamirin;

Forwards: Faridzul Afiq, Ashran Hamsani, Meor Azuan Hasan, Shahmie Irfan Suhaimi.

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