Oltmans out to win elusive title for Malaysia in six-nation tournament

KUALA LUMPUR: It’s all about redeeming the battered pride when Malaysia begin their challenge in the six-nation Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Perak.

World No. 13 Malaysia will open their campaign against world No. 21 Poland today at the Azlan Shah Hockey Stadium. The other participating countries are India, Japan, Canada and South Korea.

Malaysia are hoping to make up for their disappointing outing in the World Cup in Bhubaneswar, India, last December, where they finished a dismal 15th in the 16-field team.

National coach Roelant Oltmans from Holland has made seven changes to strengthen the team and named few young players such as defenders Muhd Arif Syafie Ishak (pic) and Luqman Nul Hakim Ahmad Shukaran to give them a first-time international exposure.

With more than 30 years of coaching experience behind him, Oltmans wants to help Malaysia lift the elusive title.

Malaysia reached the final five times since the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup tournament started in 1983 but finished as the bridesmaid in all occasions.

Oltmans hoped for a consistent showing.

“We’ve had a short preparation time but we had focused on our penalty corner set pieces. We had video sessions and also gave motivation talk to the players,” said the 64-year-old Dutchman.

“I’ve included few new names and I hope they will shine and play consistently throughout the tournament.

“The tournament is important to see the quality of our players and where they stand,” said Oltmans.

Malaysia are also using the tournament as part of their preparation for the FIH World Series at National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil from April 26-May 4, which is a qualifier for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

On the opener against the Polish team, Oltmans said: “They only arrived yesterday but I’m sure they are 100% prepared. I hope our players will rise to the occasion.”