MHF stick to June date

24/02/1999

THE Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) Management Committee met yesterday
and decided that it would be cost effective to hold the National Under-21
outside Kuala Lumpur.
MHF secretary S. Satgunam said they will stick to the new date in June
and will find an alternative venue because the National Hockey Stadium
rental is too high.
"It is alright to hold international tournaments at the National Hockey
Stadium because we can sell tickets, said Satgunam yesterday.
"But local leagues are out of the question because we cannot sell
tickets."
Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, who have started selecting players for the
Under-21 which was to be held in March, are not happy with the arrangement
but MHF have set their mind on June and the probable venue could be either
in Ipoh or Seremban.
Satgunam said the venue will be confirmed tomorrow.
The committee also decided that in addition to the 24 shortlisted for
national duty, they will need to call up more players.
"While Maninderjit Singh and Mirnawan Nawawi have committed themselves
to play in the Azlan Shah Cup, there are still a handful of players who
are doubtful starters because of studies and personal commitment.
"That is why the committee are keeping the door open to consider adding
and dropping players from time to time," said Satgunam.
That is why the MHF were keen on recalling Dr Brian Jayhan Siva.
"We contacted him yesterday but he said that since he has laid off
hockey for quite sometime, he is not very fit and would not be able to get
back in shape in time for the Azlan Shah Cup.
"Calvin Fernandez is also not available as he wants to concentrate on
his medical studies. He will only be available for the Olympic Qualifier
next year."
The national team will not be going overseas to prepare for the Azlan
Shah Cup, instead they will play a few friendlies with either Germany or
Canada one week before the tournament.
"We are trying to persuade Germany to come early for a few friendlies
failing which we have the Canadian team to rely upon," said Satgunam.
The National Hockey Stadium is the confirmed venue for the Azlan Shah
Cup because of the tremendous support given by Klang Valley fan to
internationals hosted there before.
(END)