PETALING JAYA: National tennis player Imran Daniel Abdul Hazli believes Kuala Lumpur have what it takes to deliver a strong showing at this year’s Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor.
Having won two gold medals at the previous edition two years ago in Kuching, Sarawak, the team are on a mission to double it at the Games from Aug 15-24.
“I think we have a very strong team. The previous team have set the bar high, but I believe we have the potential to achieve better than we did before,” said 21-year-old Imran.
“I will ensure everyone is motivated.
“It’s about trying to bring out the best from each player and work hard to remind them what our goal is.”
In Kuching two years ago, the Federal Territories won gold in the men’s doubles event through Darrshan Suresh Kumar and Leroy Yong, as well as the mixed team event.
This year, they have Imran, Darrshan, Gareth Lim, Aqil Adibi Rahiman, Jake Hou, and Caeus Tan in the men’s and Imran’s younger sister, Daania Daniella Abdul Hazli, to lead the women’s team alongside Nao Phang, Eleena Manoj, Mayla Manoj, Claudia Tan, and Haydee Looi.
Head coach Abdul Hazli Zainuddin said: “Realistically, we are aiming for four gold medals, but we feel we can do more.”
“We however don’t want to pressure the players.
“We know teams from Selangor, Sarawak, and Perak are strong, and they can give us a good fight for gold.”
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
