PUTRAJAYA, May 16 — Malaysia will be without its star forward K. Dinesvaran for its final Asian Rugby Championship Division 2 match against Thailand today.
The 27-year-old, better known as Dugro, misses out on suspension but said the team can do well without him.
“My absence will not affect our determination. In fact, the team is even more fired up,” said Dinesvaran, who plays for Japanese club Yamaha Jubilo.
Dinesvaran was charged with reckless play during the match against the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday. He committed the offence in the 26th minute of the match, which Malaysia won 20-19.
The Kedah-born said he was only doing his job as a lock (forward).
“I wanted to clear the area as the scrummage happened just five metres from our touch line. I had to secure the area. I was doing my job.
“Furthermore, the referees gave an advantage to UAE. So the team needed me,” he said, while pleading for Malaysian fans to support the team at the PJ Stadium today.
“Supporters played a big role in our two wins against Taiwan and UAE.”
Team manager Raimi Yusof said the Asia Rugby Football Union (ARFU) judicial officers and citing commissioner initially imposed a two-week suspension before reducing it to a one-match ban.
“Obviously I’m disappointed one of my key players is suspended for our most important game,” said Raimi.
“I’m also disappointed with the inconsistency of the referees.
“We made a report on three UAE players who committed rough play, but they were only warned and I cannot except that.”
Raimi, however, said the Malaysian Rugby Union then decided not to appeal Dinesvaran’s case.
“Even if we do, it will take two or three days to get a decision and by that time the tournament will already be over.”
If Malaysia wins, it will be promoted to Division 1 next year.
The Tigers lead Division 2 on 11 points followed by UAE (seven), Taiwan (six) and Thailand (one).
