MALAYSIA were on "if" standby to host the 2010 World Cup, said
International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Leandro Negre after he
watched Malaysia lose 3-2 to Belgium in the 11th-12th classification
match at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru on Saturday.
India, said Negre, were in disarray on four matters when Malaysia were
placed on standby, but they have almost got matters sorted out and should
be able to host the senior World Cup.
"Four matters were of concern to the FIH when we placed Malaysia on
standby. The first was facilities, then securing a title sponsor,
security and the merger of men's and women's bodies under one umbrella,"
said Negre.
"The facilities should be ready to host Test matches by the end of the
year, and they have a title sponsor, even though the amount is smaller
than expected.
"India have also pledged to beef up security and we have approved the
formation of Hockey India to merge the men's and women's bodies which we
hope will be done soonest."
On the Junior World Cup, Negre said his personal feeling is that the
tournament should never again be hosted by two countries.
"On a personal note, and not an official statement from FIH, I feel the
logistics involved when two countries host it is simply too demanding,
and if I have my way, it will never happen again," Negre said.
"However, I would like to congratulate Malaysia and Singapore for doing
a wonderful job as there were only minor glitches and all went
accordingly." The plus point is that, added Negre, is that both countries
now have two new pitches each.
"It is good for hockey that Singapore and Malaysia now have two new
pitches each and this could in turn help develop the sport further."
The Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru is smack in the middle of a middle
class housing estate, and there are many schools nearby. The stadium
belongs to the Johor Baru City Council and if they open it to schools to
train at a discounted rate, then hockey will get a boost in the state.
