LABUAN: The Malaysian Girls’ Rugby Squad are all set to showcase their prowess on the international stage as they gear up for the much-anticipated Asia Rugby U-20 Sevens 2023 scheduled to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal from Aug 19-20.
With rigorous training and unwavering determination, these young athletes are ready to represent the nation and make their mark in the tournament.
Coached by experienced mentors from Labuan Rugby Association (LRA) and backed by the Malaysian Rugby Union, the girls’ squad have been training diligently to ensure they are at the peak of their performance.
Malaysian girls’ rugby squad chef-de-mission Abdul Rashid Adlie ,who is also LRA president, expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness, stating that these young women have exhibited exceptional dedication and resilience throughout the training sessions.
“The players have been focusing on refining their techniques, enhancing their physical fitness, and developing a deep understanding of teamwork – all essential components for success on the field.
“We have worked on both individual skills and collective strategies to ensure that we approach the championship with confidence and determination,” he said to Bernama after the team’s training session at Labuan Square field here today.
Rashid said the Malaysian girls’ rugby squad is a blend of seasoned players and fresh talents, all of whom are eager to contribute their best to the team’s success.
He said LRA had been entrusted to line up Malaysia’s rugby girl players for the championship and of the 13 players, four each are from Labuan and Sarawak, two from Terengganu and one each from Selangor, Johore and Penang.
Leading the charge is the indomitable captain Zaryssa Awang Daniel from Labuan, saying that, “Representing Malaysia at an international level is an honour. We are not just a squad; we are a family united by our love for rugby. We’re ready to demonstrate our skills and make our country proud.”
The Malaysian girls’ rugby squad will depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KILA) to Kathmandu on Aug 18.
Hosted by the Nepal Rugby Association (NRA), various sevens countries are participating in the tournament in the men’s category, and three countries in the women’s category.
Nepal, India, Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, and Uzbekistan will take part in the men’s category, while Nepal, Thailand, and Malaysia are in the women’s category.
The winning team will bag the Asia rugby trophy and the venue for the tournament is the Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal. – BERNAMA