THE Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) holds little importance for Malaysia this year, but the other five teams will use it to prepare for the Junior World Cup in New Delhi.
Malaysia failed to qualify for the Junior World Cup, when they finished fifth in the Kuantan Junior Asia Cup.
The other five SOJC teams -- England, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Japan -- have all qualified for the Junior World Cup and will be at their best in Johor Baru on Oct 31-Nov 6.
Japan were invited after two-time champions India withdrew, after confirming their entry earlier.
The SOJC team will be handled by development coaches Wallace Tan and Amin Rahim.
"After we failed to qualify for the Junior World Cup, the team was disbanded and we might have some difficulties forming a formidable side," said Amin.
This is because there are only 15 players in training under the development coaches, and so, the Razak Cup will be a selection ground for the SOJC.
"My advise to those who played in the Junior Asia Cup, as well as those who aspire to play in the Under-21 SOJC, is to keep themselves fit and give their best in the Razak Cup.
"The plan right now is to select players from this tournament, and maybe, train for two months before the SOJC," said Amin.
The Razak Cup will be held on may 21-29 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
