Simply Karishma-tic!
Lanky lass gels well with towering Norashikin in win over the Philippines
NATIONAL netball coach Tracey Robinson tested a new shooting combination of Norashikin Kamalzaman and S.L. Karishma for the match against the Philippines.
And the two lanky lasses came through with flying colours, leading Malaysia to an impressive 96-11 win and become the top- ranked team on the final day of the round-robin tournament at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara.
Malaysia will take on Brunei in today’s semi-finals.
Singapore, who defeated Thailand 59-41 to finish as the second-ranked team, will face Thailand again for a place in the final.
Malaysia’s victory over the Philippines is even more impressive as Robinson rested her two sharp shooters – An Najwa Azizan and Izyan Syazana Mohd Wazir.
“I wanted some players to rest today. I wanted to be assured that others will step up if anyone is injured. I’m pleased with the outcome,” said Australian Robinson.
“Karishma showed her potential today. She was outstanding in the goal area with Norashikin. She played with confidence.
“I’m also happy with the crowd. A group of youngsters screamed with delight every time Norashikin got the ball. That’s what I want to see – the netball team inspiring others.”
Norashikin was also in her element against the Philippines – scoring 57 points from 70 attempts. The pencil-thin Karishma converted 39 out of 42 attempts in the D.
“I can now proudly declare that we have four good shooters (Najwa, Izyan, Norashikin and Karishma). I can field any combination and I know they’ll deliver,” said Robinson.
However, she is cautious about the semi-final clash against Brunei.
“Anything can happen on match day. I’m not bothered about the score. I’m more concerned with how the girls will execute the game plan.
“Overall, though, I think our team is coming up nicely for the final,” she said.