Malaysia on waiting list to host 2010 World Cup

MALAYSIAN Hockey Federation (MHF) president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah yesterday confirmed that the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has placed Malaysia on standby to host the 2010 senior World Cup, as India is still struggling to get its federation back on its feet.

The FIH had given India an ultimatum to merge its men's and women's federations, and Hockey India was formed, but there are still teething problems to sort out.

"Yes, the FIH has placed Malaysia on standby to host the senior World Cup next year if India is unable to host it. I would like to make it clear that we are not out to steal the show from India, but if the FIH feel India can't host it, then Malaysia is ready to take over," said Tengku Abdullah after watching Malaysia beat South Africa 3-1 on Monday.

And Johor Baru has also been earmarked as a possible venue.

FIH president Leandro Negre will be in Johor to watch the final of the Junior World Cup, and he will be taken on a tour of the facilities at the Taman Daya Stadium.
"When Negre comes, we will show him around and I am sure he will agree that the Taman Daya Stadium can host the senior tournament as well. No decision has yet been made, and maybe Negre will shed some light when he arrives," added Tengku Abdullah.

It was reported in the Indian media that the Indian Hockey Federation and the newly-formed Hockey India decided to bury the hatchet and merge the men's and women's federations into Hockey India's fold on Sunday.

It is said that the two parties formed a six-member sub-committee to work out the merger within 45 days.