KUALA LUMPUR: The presence of top tekong (server) Mohd Syahir Mohd Rosdi (pic) has been described as Malaysia’s most potent “psychological weapon” to intimidate opponents, especially traditional rivals Thailand, at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in September.
Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (PSM) president Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan said Syahir possessed exceptional qualities that could make a major impact on the team, with his ability on the court earning great respect from other squads.
He said that although the player is currently struggling with an injury, PSM remained hopeful that Syahir could regain optimal fitness before the Asiad.
“Syahir has his own strengths that Thailand genuinely fears,” after chairing the PSM supreme committee meeting on Monday night.
“That is why we want him in the squad, because his presence alone already creates a positive impact and serves as a psychological advantage against our opponents.”
Sumali however stressed that PSM are not relying solely on one player and already has a backup plan should Syahir’s recovery process not proceed as planned.
“We’ve other tekongs who, I believe, have shown significant improvement and are capable of competing against their opponents,” he said.
Syahir was forced to take a break after suffering an injury while competing at the World Cup in May. — Bernama
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