Faizal almost ready to play among men

EIGHTEEN-YEAR-OLD Faizal Shaari is a strong bet to don national colours when Malaysia play in the World Cup Qualifiers at the end of the year.
The Junior World Cup player, who scored eight goals in Johor Baru, has proven to be an asset in the senior ranks as well after he scored against Australia and New Zealand in the recent friendlies.
Team manager George Koshy feels he is almost ready to play among the big boys: “Faizal scored a few goals in the Australia and New Zealand series, and now he is in con tention to represent Malaysia in the qualifier.” But first, he will be tested again when Malaysia head to China for friendly against the hosts and Australia A from Sept 28- Aug 8.
“We have arranged for six friendlies against the Australia A and China sides at the end of September, and if Faizal still keeps his form, he will be given a chance in the Qualifier,” said George.
The International Hoc key Federation (FIH) have yet to confirm teams for the three qualifiers which will be held in New Zealand, Argentina and France.
“We will only know who we will be playing against, and the venue after the European championships and also the Oceania Cup.
“As such, we need to prepare by playing various teams and be ready to make an attempt to qualify for the New Delhi World Cup next year.”
Teams who have already qualified for the World Cup are hosts India, Pan American champions Canada, Asia Cup winners South Korea and Africa Cup champions South Africa.
The other qualifiers will come from the winner of the Oceania Cup, and semi-finalists of the EuroHockey Nations Championship.
The final vacancies will be filled up by gold medallists in the three Qualifiers which Malaysia will be playing in.