SEREMBAN, Sept 28 — The national hockey squad’s stylish 4-1 mauling of Japan for a ticket to the semi-finals of the Asian Games can boost the confidence of the players against Pakistan on Tuesday, said Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
“And this is the best preparation to face Pakistan. I am confident they have what it takes to advance to the final,” he said after closing a course at the 508 Regiment, Territorial Army Parade Ground, Jalan Rasah Camp here, today. Khairy said this when asked to comment on the success of the national hockey squad in reach the semifinal after trouncing Japan 4-1 at the group level yesterday.
Meanwhile, Khairy said numerous changes and provision of new incentives must be made for the future of national sports.
“I did not have the chance to formulate a four-year strategy prior to this (for the Asia Games.) What we see today, is the result of a plan made four years ago.
“So, I have the opportunity to plan for the next four years and what is important is that we see improvement after this. I noticed some weaknesses. They will be refined and I will prepare a new elite development plan early next year for the next four years,” he added. — Bernama
