MCA NOT GOING THE FAM WAY
National body against naturalising players as locals have proven their pedigree
INSTEAD of “recruiting” super batters or bowlers from Test playing nations, the Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) have been focusing on homegrown talent. Their stand is in contrast to that of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) who announced a programme recently to recruit naturalised players to improve the country’s poor ranking of World No 167.
Though Malaysia are not a powerhouse, the MCA won’t take a similar stance as FAM.
MCA are not enthusiastic in getting foreign players to don Malaysian colours even if that could transform them into a cricketing force.
Sure, it’s tempting to get naturalised players from nations like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India or Bangladesh but MCA prefer to stick to scoring home runs with local talent for now.
The MCA have indicated they are not giving much thought into naturalised players.
Though that move could be a “shortcut” to success, MCA president Mahinda Vallipuram said it is “better to pave pathways” that may take a long time but are rewarding.
He pointed out that Malaysia, though
focusing on homegrown talent, have seen their world ranking improve from number 49 to 23rd last year.
“We have been grooming local players and giving them opportunities. And we have seen positive results,” said Mahinda.
“In any sport, you want to be consistent, sustainable and have goals.”
It may have taken years for Malaysia to get to this laudable level but to the MCA, their work isn’t done yet as they aim to raise the grassroots to a much higher level.
“We want to create a pathway that brings all the players to a system where we can have development, high performance and selection programmes that encompass training, coaching and personal developments,” said Mahinda.
“I think it (MCA’s system) is wholesome and the country’s ranking for the past six years has reflected that approach,” he said.
The MCA recently launched their Adiwira junior programme which emulates New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa’s development programmes.
Adwira is community cricket which engages children to have fun while developing their skills.