Malaysia approached to host Asia Cup

DUBAI does not want it anymore, so the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) is involved in a ‘table talk’ with Malaysia to host the Asia Cup on May 8-15.
Hot at the centre of dispute is the US$20,000 hosting fee, which the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) wants waived, to seal the deal.
“The AHF wrote to us saying that Dubai does not want to be the Asia Cup host anymore, but did not specify what prompt ed them to reverse their decision.
“The issue was discussed at the last council meeting (in Johor) and it was agreed that MHC will host the tournament, provided the hosting fee is waived,” said an official who declined to be named as the matter is still under dis cussion.
Sultan Azlan Shah is the AHF president, while Tan Sri P. Alagendra the secretary general.
The MHC, still smarting from the million-ringgit loss suffered by hosting the Champions Trophy, have written to the AHF, but have yet receive a reply.
The Asia Cup also doubles up as a qualifier for the 2010 New Delhi World Cup, with only the champion advancing, while the rest will play in a qualifier.
“The council also agreed that if AFH waive the hosting fee, the tournament will be held at the Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh.
“We have debts to the tune of RM1 million, and it would be foolish to host another tournament, but being hosts will benefit our campaign, and also, we can save on travelling, accommodation, and food costs.” said the official.
The AHF had also looked at Pakistan as hosts, but their plans were derailed after terrorists attacked the Sri Lankan cricket team.
Ipoh will host the Azlan Shah Cup on April 5-12, and if all goes well, the Asia Cup a month later.