KUALA LUMPUR — National men’s hockey head coach Sarjit Singh believes the current Speedy Tigers squad will need at least four years to develop into an elite team.
Reflecting on their campaign at the Nations Cup, Sarjit said the team’s marking and defensive structure must be significantly improved.
“Our performance throughout the tournament was below expectations. We had some good matches previously, but today against Wales, we were a bit slow.
“Despite taking a 1-0 lead and having chances to put the match to bed, we didn’t take them. When opportunities come, we have to convert. Still, I’m pleased with the boys’ effort.
“Hopefully, the younger players take this as a learning experience. If you’re given the chance to play, you need to step up.
“We simply can’t afford these kinds of mistakes moving forward. Our marking and defensive play must improve. We also need to play more matches—particularly under pressure. Friendly games aren’t the same; tournament matches and test games carry intensity and stakes.
“That’s why participating in more tournaments like the Nations Cup is vital. You can’t build a strong team in just one or two years. It takes time—at least four years.
“Only then will we have a solid, dependable pool of players. Right now, we’re still in the process of identifying and nurturing talent. Getting more players who are truly hungry to play would be a step forward,” he said.
The 62-year-old Olympian’s side suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to world No. 17 Wales in the fifth-sixth classification match at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil today.
The result meant Malaysia failed to meet Sarjit’s target of reaching the tournament semi-finals.
It was a particularly sweet victory for Wales, who had not beaten Malaysia in their previous six meetings. The Speedy Tigers last triumphed over them in 2021 during a test match at Reading Hockey Club in England.
On his four-year vision, Sarjit said he has the full backing of the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) and would step down if the team fails to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“MHC have been supportive and I don’t foresee any issues there. But let me be clear—my goal is the 2028 Olympics. That’s what I was brought in to prepare for.
“If I feel I can’t deliver within two years, I’ll step down voluntarily. There’s no need to blame the players. As head coach, I take full responsibility. I believe we’re on the right path. These are young players—they need experience,” he said.
Desperate to redeem themselves after missing out on the semis, Malaysia went ahead in the 20th minute through Syed Mohd Syafiq Syed Cholan, who converted a penalty corner.
But the hosts allowed Wales back into the game, with Rhys Bradshaw levelling in the 42nd minute—also from a penalty corner—before Gareth Furlong sealed the win with another set-piece strike in the 50th minute.
Earlier, Japan defeated South Africa 2-1 to finish seventh. – June 21, 2025