National hockey striker player Faizal Saari has been dropped from a group of 20 players for the upcoming Europe tour, with MHC claiming that he is unfit.
In the past week, Faizal’s disciplinary drama seems to have resurfaced as he failed to report for training without any explanation or valid reasons being given to the coach.
This time around though, he claimed that his absence was due to his engagement preparations, though that seems to have had no effect on his role within the national squad, as far as their European stint in Belgium is concerned.
According to MHC Secretary General Datuk Johari Abdul Aziz, the national squad will play two matches each against Holland and Belgium, as well as several club sides. This is part of their preparation for the third leg of the World Hockey League, which will be held from June 20 to July 5.
“Faizal will not be going to Europe this time around. He will have to stay in Malaysia, get the necessary training to get him back in shape,” Datuk Johari was quoted as saying by Bernama.
“Prior to this, he has rested way too long. Hence, we will now open the opportunity for other players, and get them to gain experience during the European stint. Faizal really needs to work on his fitness.
Malaysia would have to finish in the top three of the World Hockey League to be able to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
Photo credits: www.ligakampung.com
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