PETALING JAYA: Experience will be Malaysia’s biggest asset at the World Cup in Belgium with veterans Marhan Jalil, Faizal Saari and Faiz Helmi Jali set to make their fourth appearance on hockey’s biggest stage.
The 36-year-old Marhan leads the experienced trio alongside Faizal, 35, and Faiz, 34, in the competition from Aug 15-20.
The three have featured in every World Cup campaign since 2014, representing Malaysia in The Hague (2014), Bhubaneswar (2018) and Bhubaneswar-Rourkela (2023).
Their best result was 12th place in 2014.
They will now be hoping their wealth of experience can inspire a stronger finish in Wavre.
Marhan, who has the most international caps for Malaysia with 356 appearances, said representing the country was not just a matter of personal pride but an opportunity to continue being a role model for the younger generation.
“Being able to play with Faizal and Faiz is a joy for me,” said Marhan.
“We’ve shared the same dream and goals since we were young and that journey continues until now. I hope the team, especially the young players, will take Faizal and Faiz as examples to always have big hearts and passion for the game even though they may be small in stature.
“That’s what we want from upcoming players.”
Faizal and Faiz have made 322 and 272 caps with the national team respectively.
“Playing in my fourth World Cup is a tribute to all my sacrifices and hard work since the start of my career.
“I want to help the team continue to become better,” said Marhan.
Malaysia will start their Group B campaign against Germany on Aug 15, followed by France (Aug 17) and Belgium (Aug 19).
Marhan is hopeful for Malaysia to pull off a surprise despite a tough group stage.
“It would be good if we could steal points from bigger teams. We just need to be prepared,” added Marhan.
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