KUALA LUMPUR: With the 2025 World Cup on the horizon, national kegler Natasha Mohamed Roslan is preparing for a strong start to the upcoming season, driven by a clear and ambitious goal. The event, slated from January 5 to 14 at the newly constructed Top Bowl Tenpin Bowling Centre in Kowloon, Hong Kong, serves as more than just another competition for Natasha, as it offers a strategic opportunity to acclimate to the venue ahead of her title defense at the World Championships later in the year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Natasha, 28, views the World Cup as both a medal opportunity and a vital warm-up for the World Championships scheduled from November 24 to December 6 at the same venue. “Playing there will give us insights into the environment, including the temperature-whether it’s warm or cold-which affects aspects like thumb grip size,” Natasha shared during a recent training session.

Natasha will compete in the women’s singles and team events alongside fellow top Asian bowlers Sin Li Jane, Siti Safiyah Amirah Abdul Rahman, and Gillian Lim. On the men’s side, Malaysia will present a formidable lineup featuring former world champion Muhammad Rafiq Ismail, Timmy Tan, Tun Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam, and Ahmad Muaz Mohd Fishol.

Natasha emphasized the importance of the team event, noting that a collective podium finish would bring shared joy and pride for the team. Despite the pressures accompanying a new season, Natasha remains determined to maintain her momentum. “The pressure is always there, especially with others targeting the World Championships, but I will do my best,” she stated.

Reflecting on her achievements in 2024, Natasha described it as a remarkable year. Her accolades include being named the 2023 Sportswoman of the Year at the National Sports Award in June, receiving the 2023 Selangor Sportswoman title in October, and being honored with the Ahli Kegemilangan Sukan Selangor (A.K.S) award during the 79th birthday celebrations of the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, last month.