A point to prove at King’s Cup
national sepak takraw team have a ‘special mission’ at the King’s Cup in Bangkok later this month.
Malaysia want to silence their critics who did not give them due credit for winning the inter-regu gold medal at the recent Indonesia Asian Games.
They say Malaysia only won because Thailand decided not to put up a team for the inter-regu competition.
In the team competition at the Asian Games, Malaysia were humbled 2-0 by the Thais.
National coach Abdul Talib Ahmad will have to select his best available players and also come up with effective strategies for the King’s Cup.
Among those in the national team are Zulkifli Abdul Razak, Noraizat Mohd Nordin, Norhaffizi Abd Razak, Syazreenqamar Salehan, Syahir Rosdi, Azlan Alias and Farhan Adam, who all played at the Asian Games.
In last year’s King’s Cup, Malaysia won two titles in the inter-regu (21-15, 21-11 win over Indonesia) and quadrant.
“Our trainees will report for training soon.
“We will use the practice sessions to overcome our weaknesses.
“We need to be ready as Thailand will be the team to beat at the King’s Cup,” said Talib.
The King’s Cup, which incepted in 1985, is regarded the most prestigious sepak takraw event and the tournament gathers the best teams in the world.