SOJC: Malaysia hoping to strike right note against India

ISKANDAR PUTERI, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia hope to start on the right note when facing India in their opening match of the 10th Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor Bahru, tomorrow.

Though the National squad lacks experience at the international stage, the men’s special project squad team manager I. Vikneswaran said the team has prepared well to face the challenges that await in the tournament.

"To me, the Indian team is among the strongest in the world as far as the senior team ranking is concerned, but what is important is for us to be prepared technically and tactically. We should not be intimidated by our opponents," he told reporters at the SOJC media conference, here today.

Vikneswaran said the SOJC was the best platform for the National Under 21 squad players to showcase their talent because the tournament is the first phase of preparations to form a formidable team for the 2023 Men’s World Junior Championships.

The opening day fixtures of the SOJC will see Australia taking on Japan, Great Britain facing South Africa and Malaysia taking on India.

Meanwhile, Indian team manager Mohammad Alam said the squad which had prepared for six months, will parade seven players from the senior squad.

Mohammad said the SOJC would be the team’s first international competition after a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We didn't have any friendly matches, so this is our first match after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and we will try to give the best," he said.

The International Under-21 competition to be held from Oct 22-29, sees South Africa competing for the first time against regulars Great Britain, Japan, India, Australia and Malaysia.

Malaysia emerged victorious in the inaugural SOJC held in 2011. 

-- BERNAMA