More join crocked list as Tigers race against time for Nations Cup

“It’s going to be tough (with injuries) as we will be playing against stronger teams in South Africa.” a. arulselvaraj

PETALING JAYA: The Speedy Tigers are in a race against time in their preparation for the Nations Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from Nov 28-Dec 4 as several more players joined the injury list after the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh.

Malaysia won the Azlan Shah Cup for the first time in 39 years but there were collateral damage as midfielder Najib Abu Hassan suffered a broken nose, young forward Amirul Hamizan Azahar injured his foot and reserve goalkeeper Zaimi Mat Deris pulled his hamstring.

The hosts have already been sweating over the recoveries of experienced defender Marhan Jalil and forward Shahril Saabah. Marhan is down with a right foot injury while Shahril is nursing knee and calf injuries.

The Nations Cup was introduced by world governing body FIH to get quality match practice for the World Cup in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, India, from Jan 13-29.

It is meant for teams outside the top nine of the world ranking who did not qualify to play in the ongoing FIH Pro League.

“The injuries are a concern. They’ll go to NSI (National Sports Institute) immediately to find out the extent of their injuries,” said coach A. Arulselvaraj.

“X-ray showed Amirul did not suffer a fracture but we will know more in the next two days.

“Marhan and Shahril will also be re-assessed. Marhan is supposed to start training this week but we need to be sure if he is fully recovered.

“It’s going to be tough (with injuries) as we will be playing against stronger teams in South Africa.

“However, I’m not looking at any new players and will select the team (for the Nations Cup) from the 24 that I have.”

Malaysia are in Group B with South Korea, Canada and Japan for the Nations Cup. The Group A consists of France, Ireland, Pakistan and South Africa.

Malaysia may also have the services of midfielder Faizal Saari who will return tomorrow from his club stint at the Dutch premier league (Hoodsklasse), where he had played for ZSV Schaerweijde.

“Faizal’s experience playing in the Dutch league will be good for the team but he will need to undergo a fitness test and fight for his spot,” added Arulselvaraj.