KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) has decided not to extend the contract of national head coach Sarjit Singh, bringing an end to his two-year tenure with the Speedy Tigers.
The former Olympian, who guided Malaysia to qualification for this year’s FIH Hockey World Cup, will be replaced by South African coach Brendon Carolan, who is set to take over on April 1 on a one-year contract.
Speaking to reporters at the Bukit Jalil National Hockey Stadium, MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal said the decision was made collectively by the executive board after reviewing the team’s direction ahead of a crucial period.
“We are very appreciative of what Sarjit has done over the past two years. He has sacrificed a lot for the national team and played a key role in helping us qualify for the World Cup,” said Subahan.
“However, after reviewing the overall situation and with the Asian Games just six months away, we felt that a change was necessary to bring a different approach and take the team to a higher level.”
Subahan emphasised that this year’s Asian Games, which also serves as a pathway to the 2028 Olympic Games is now the top priority for Malaysian hockey.
“Whether we like it or not, we must reach the final. That is crucial for our Olympic ambitions,” he added.
Carolan is no stranger to the Malaysian setup, having previously served as assistant coach to Arul Selvaraj during the 2022 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where Malaysia ended a long wait for the title by winning it for the first time since the tournament’s inception in 1983.
He was also part of the coaching staff during Malaysia’s campaign at the 2023 World Cup in Rourkela and Bhubaneswar, India.
Subahan said Carolan’s familiarity with the players, coupled with positive feedback from the squad, played a key role in his appointment.
“He knows the players very well, and the feedback from the squad has been positive. Given the short window we have, we need someone who can make an immediate impact,” he said.
Currently based in Dublin, and with coaching experience in Europe, including a consultancy role with Belgian club Gantoise, Carolan is expected to arrive in Malaysia next week to begin preparations.
He will also be given the freedom to select his own backroom staff, with key performance indicators (KPIs) centred on the Asian Games.
Malaysia, currently ranked 15th in the world, are also under pressure to improve their standings, with the FIH Nations Cup in June providing an opportunity to regain ground.
Despite the change, Subahan stressed that Sarjit’s departure was amicable, with no issues between the coach and players.
“The players respected him and appreciated his work. This is not about fault as it is about what is best for the team moving forward,” he said.
With a packed schedule ahead, the Speedy Tigers will now look to build momentum under Carolan as they gear up for a crucial run of tournaments culminating in the Asian Games. -March 18, 2026