Exposure in Europe vital to improve — Hockey captain

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s win over Italy in the Women’s Hockey World League ( WHWL) and a formidable performance against Ireland in the final has drawn praise from not only within the country but also from their opponents.

Ireland skipper Kathryn Mullan said the performance and work rate of the National women’s team gave her a pleasant surprise.

“I was impressed with Malaysia and I know if we meet them again in Round Three we have

to prepare very well because they play some very impressive hockey and they definitely played better than their ranking.

“I believe if they keep on putting a lot of hard work in training they will become a better team,” she said.

Ireland, ranked world number 16, beat Malaysia 3- 0 in the final while Malaysia who are ranked world number 21, had beaten Italy, the highest ranked team in the WHWL, at 15.

Despite the loss, the National women’s team coached by Muhammad Dharma Raj Abdullah has for the first time, qualified for the World League semifinals to be held in Belgium and South Africa in June and July.

Malaysia will play in the World League Semi- Finals either in Brussels, Belgium (June 21-July 2), or in Johannesburg, South Africa, from July 8-22.

The Mal ays i an Ho ckey Confederation ( MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal who watched the match against Ireland later announced that the National team may be sent to Europe for exposure as part of preparations for the World League.

Meanwhile, skipper Siti Noor Amarina Ruhani said playing in Europe would be the best platform for players to improve, especially when facing teams from Europe. — Bernama