Kuala lumpur: Defending champions Terengganu are placing their hopes on national forward Faizal Saari to lead them to victory in the upcoming Tun Abdul Razak Cup hockey tournament, which kicks off this Wednesday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Terengganu coach Mohd Harfizi Baharom emphasized the importance of Faizal’s performance, especially given the absence of several key players. Four of Terengganu’s players, including Mohammad Fitri Saari, Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esook, and Syarman Mat Tee, have been called up for the national training camp, while two others are committed to the national junior squad.

“We will surely miss a player of Fitri’s quality in midfield. However, we hope Faizal will be able to guide the youngsters in the squad and power us to defend the title,” said Mohd Harfizi at the Tun Abdul Razak Cup media conference held at Bukit Jalil.

In the 2024 edition, Faizal was the top scorer, leading Terengganu to a narrow 2-1 victory over Johor to claim the men’s title. In the women’s category, the Young Tigress secured a win with a similar scoreline against Selangor. This year, the 63rd edition of the tournament will feature 13 men’s teams and 11 women’s teams competing for top honors.