World Cup Hockey Qualifying Round Is National Coach Tai's Last Chance

MUADZAM SHAH, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- The qualifying rounds for the Hockey World Cup will be the last ground for national coach Tai Beng Hai to prove his capability.

President of the Malaysian Hockey Federation, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, said the federation would study and re-evaluate Tai's performance and achievements to lead the national team after the championship.

"This is a last chance for him to prove (his capability). After that, we will evaluate him," he told reporters here.

Tan was appointed coach for the national hockey team on Dec 27 last year.

The team took second place in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup championship last April and was fourth in the Asia Cup championship in May.

Asked on the possibility of the federation seeking a foreign coach, Tengku Abdullah said it was not impossible.

"We are still looking and hoping for a coach with caliber to lead the national team, but we don't simply pick any person for the job, it should be based on merit," he added.

Meanwhile, Tengku Abdullah expressed shock over a report that some national hockey players were contemplating to retire from the game.

He said the federation would identify problems facing the players concern before deciding on the next course of action.

He said he would also meet Tai to discuss the matter.

-- BERNAMA

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