KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Rugby are set to announce a new coach for their 15’s squad, confirming that they will not be renewing the contract of the previous coach, Farid Syazwan Abu Bakar
Malaysia Rugby president Amir Amri Mohamad confirmed that Farid Syazwan Abu Bakar’s contract will not be renewed, citing a lack of significant achievements during his two-year tenure, particularly in the Premier Division of the Asia Rugby Championship.
A successor has already been identified along with two new assistant coaches, and the official announcement is expected on Feb 6.
"Farid's performance has been underwhelming, and we have informed him that his contract will not be renewed. We have already identified a replacement, who is also a local coach and a former national player.
"We were supposed to meet with the candidate on Feb 3 (Monday), but the meeting has been postponed to Feb 6 (Thursday)," said Amir.
Farid was appointed in April 2023, replacing former New Zealand All Blacks player Rodney So’oialo. His tenure was extended for another year to lead the Bunga Raya squad in the Asia Rugby Championship.
Despite various challenges, Farid worked tirelessly to keep Malaysia competitive. However, the team finished at the bottom of the standings for two consecutive editions.
Amir dismissed concerns that the coaching change was a risky move, even with Malaysia set to face Sri Lanka in the Asia Rugby Championship qualifiers on April 19.
Malaysia were initially set for relegation to Division 1 after finishing last in the previous season. However, a format change has given the team another chance to retain their spot, provided they defeat Sri Lanka, the reigning Division 1 champions.
However, with Sri Lanka Rugby embroiled in internal political turmoil and facing possible suspension by World Rugby, could work in Malaysia’s favor, potentially allowing them to remain in the Premier Division without having to fight for it on the field.
“I don’t see this as a risky decision because we need a new coach.
“As for the qualifiers, we have yet to receive official confirmation on the venue, whether it will be held in Sri Lanka or Malaysia. We are waiting for World Rugby’s decision on Sri Lanka’s status, which will be announced on February 18. If their association is suspended, we will likely retain our spot in the Premier Division,” Amir added.
The Premier Division also features South Korea, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
