KUALA LUMPUR — Matadors Hockey Club is determined to give their Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) opponents a run for their money once their full squad is available when the league resumes on February 13.
The league debutants, who feature eight Pakistan internationals, have struggled so far, losing four of their first five matches and conceding a total of 22 goals.
To make matters worse, the team—coached by K. Yogeswaran, who guided Perak to three consecutive Razak Cup titles from 2020 to 2022—has been without four of their key Pakistani players.
Among those absent are Pakistan national team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, Abdul Hannan Shahid, and Rana Muhammad Waleed Ashraf, who were recalled for a domestic competition by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). They are expected to rejoin the team next week.
Meanwhile, 21-year-old defender Abdul Mannan has been hospitalised at Assunta Hospital with an appendix issue but is expected to return in the coming days.
Speaking to Scoop, Matadors’ team manager Sarwan Singh admitted the team’s situation was concerning but remained confident that fortunes would change once the squad was complete.
“It’s worrying, and of course, I’m disappointed with our current form as we haven’t shown much progress. But we’ve been unfortunate, losing our best players at such a crucial stage of the league.
“We had no choice but to release Ammad, Hannan, and Rana due to PHF’s orders. Whenever they receive a call-up, they must comply, as per our contract with them.
“Although Mannan will return in the next couple of days, we need to ensure he undergoes a proper fitness test to be ready by February 13.
“Despite our current challenges, I’m confident we’ll turn things around once our full squad is available. With the ability to rotate our best players, we’ll be a formidable force.
“Our local players have given their all, but once our top players are back, we’ll be unstoppable. I’m still confident we can finish in the top four this season,” said Sarwan when contacted.
In addition to Ammad, Hannan, Rana, and Mannan, Matadors also have Muhammad Sufyan Khan, Zikriya Hayat, Abdul Waheed Ashraf, and Usama Bashir—players who have represented Pakistan at various levels, including the Junior World Cup and the senior team.
The team has further bolstered its squad with two Indian national players, enhancing its international presence.
The roster also features a mix of Malaysian Indian and Punjabi players aged 15 to 21, alongside seasoned athletes from various MHL teams.
Matadors currently sit seventh in the ten-team MHL standings with three points. — January 30, 2025