MHF pick 14 new players for junior training squad

The just concluded MHF-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League (MJHL) has thrown up 12 new players for the national junior training squad.

Besides the 12, another two players who featured in the Under-21 meet in January were also selected.

These 14 players will join the current list of 24 players for a three-day camp, starting tomorrow at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil. And a squad of 30 will be named after the camp.

National Junior coach V. Muralidharan said yesterday that the 14 will be joining national training for the first time.

“We will assess them thoroughly during the camp and determine whether they are good enough to remain in the training squad. We had 36 players earlier this year and we dropped 12 of them in stages. The junior training programme will go into full swing after we come up with the new list of 30 players,” he said.

Muralidharan added that their first priority was to work on the player’s fitness and there is a plan to have a special camp in Langkawi from April 16-28.

Four friendly matches have also been lined up against the Singapore senior team at the National Hockey Stadium from May 2-6.

“Our main assignment this year is the Junior Asian Cup in India in July. The performance of the team there will give us a good indication on how far the players have progressed,” said Muralidharan.

“The tournament is also a qualifying event for the Junior World Cup Finals next year.

“But we will not be vying for places because we are automatic qualifiers by virtue of being the hosts of the Finals together with Singapore. The matches will be good tests for the players.”

In June, the team may go on a playing tour of Europe.

From MJHL: Shahrul Anuar Ibrahim, Mohamed Fadli Ismail, Mohamed Halimim Hakimi Ripin (MSS-Kelantan); Mohamed Amirul Rashid, Nur Hrsikesa Mohamed Murni, Mohamed Kamaruzain Kamal (Olak); Mohamed Andika Norarahis (MSJ-Batu Pahat); Mohamed Syair Mohamed Hatta, Meor Mohamed Ridhwan (Tenaga); Mohamed Marhan Mohamed Jalil (TBSS); Mohamed Ismat Imadi (BPSS); Mohamed Iderus Ali (MSN Malacca).

From Under-21 tournament: Mohamed Firdaus (Navy); Mohamed Amirul Syafiq Ahmad (CIMB Bank).