By V. Sivaji
The Japanese national team is the first team to arrive for the 29th edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to be held from Nov 1 to Nov 10, 2022 in Ipoh.
Other teams taking part in the tournament are Korea, Pakistan, South Africa, Egypt and hosts, Malaysia.
The 22-member squad is led by team manager Akira Takahashi and coach Katsuya Takase.
The team checked-in into the M Roof Hotel & Suites on Deepavali day.
“We came in early as the weather in Japan is very cold now. Malaysia is very hot and our players can adapt to the conditions here over the next few days.
“We hope to do well; in this tournament and our target is to win the tournament.
” We will go to South Africa followed by Spain for other international tournaments. At the end of the year we will participate in India’s World Cup.
“Next year, we will also be at the Asia Cup in China,” said Takase in an interview.
The tournament which is making its comeback after the pandemic will be held in a round robin format. All matches will be held at the Azlan Shah Hockey Stadium here and the entrance is free.
The opening day (Tuesday, Nov 1) Japan will be taking on Egypt, while Malaysia will take on Korea and Pakistan will take on South Africa.
Since the tournament’s inception in 1983, for the very first time this year it will also offer world ranking points for participating counties.
The tournament is expected to bring excitement and much needed activity to Ipoh folks and sports enthusiasts.