Earning ranking points is the ultimate target

MALAYSIA want to earn ranking points in next week’s Asia Cup in Dhaka.

Stephen Van Huizen’s side moved two rungs to World No 12 with 930 points after finishing fourth in the World League Semi-Finals in London in June en route to qualifying for next year’s World Cup.

Malaysia need to do decently in Dhaka for ranking points as it will provide them a smooth passage into the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“Even though, we have qualified for the World Cup, the Asia Cup is important as we have a chance to earn ranking points.

“If we do not perform then there is a danger that we will drop to 14th in the world. I have reminded the players to do their best in Dhaka,” said Van Huizen.

Currently, Canada are ranked World No 11 (1,015 points), followed by Malaysia (930), South Korea (898) and Pakistan (895).

“Pakistan finished seventh in the World League Semifinals in London, but qualified for the World Cup because of their ranking.

“Similarly, China who finished eighth in London will have a chance to make the World Cup if Egypt beat South Africa in the Africa Cup (Oct 22-29) based on their ranking.

“We need to improve our ranking so that when it comes to the Olympic qualifiers, we will have a better chance of playing in Tokyo,” said Van Huizen, adding that he hopes his team will make the final in Dhaka. Jugjet Singh