Rookie hungry for goals

Norsyafiq out to put his name on score sheet in Gold Coast

All in the family: Norsyafiq Sumantri (left) will have his sister Norazlin for company in the Commonwealth Games as both have been included in the hockey squads. KUALA LUMPUR: Forward Norsyafiq Sumantri, who made his senior debut for the country in the recent Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, has caught the eye of coach Stephen van Huizen.

The 22-year-old – who made his debut against Ireland – has been included in the 18-member squad for the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, from April 5-15.

“It was a dream come true to play for the national senior team. I was excited when I earned my first international cap. I knew I had to really perform well in the tournament to win a place for the Commonwealth Games.

“My aim in the Games is to score my first international goal after failing to do so in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

“In the Commonwealth Games, we’ll be playing against strong teams and the challenge for me will be to play well and get my name on the scoring sheet,” said Norsyafiq, who will have his sister, Norazlin, for company as she is representing the women’s hockey team in her second Commonwealth Games.

“I’m happy that I also kept my family tradition going by featuring in the Games. My elder brother, Norhizzat, competed in Glasgow with my sister and now I will be taking part with my sister.

“I hope that the men’s and women’s hockey teams will do well,” said Norsyafiq.

The 25- year- old striker Norazlin said that she felt proud of her brother Norsyafiq for featuring in the Games.

“It gives us (brother and sister) the boost to play for the country. Not many siblings get the chance to feature for the country in sports,” said Norazlin, who has 90 international caps to her credit.

“My brother is a hard-working player and I’m confident that he will play his best to be a regular in the national team,” she said.