KUCHING: At just 18, Mohammad Hariz Afnan Sulhie is leading Sarawak’s Sukma Men’s T20 cricket team with the confidence and poise of a seasoned athlete.
With more than 13 years of experience, Hariz has risen from a young boy who fell in love with cricket under his brother’s guidance to the captain of a team with high hopes for this year’s Sukma Games.
“My brother taught me how to play cricket when I was just five years old.
“My brother, who only played during his school days before being sidelined by an injury, ignited the passion for cricket that now fuels my ambition,” Hariz told reporters after winning the match against Melaka in the group stage on Wednesday (Aug 14).
Despite his brother’s early exit from the sport, Hariz has carried the torch forward, dedicating his life to cricket.
Having honed his skills at Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman, his dedication did not go unnoticed, earning him a spot on Sarawak’s Sukma team for the second consecutive time.
Last year, he said, Sarawak’s journey was cut short after the group stage, but Hariz is determined to change that this year.
“We have high hopes, focusing on the game, and, God willing, when we reach the top group, we will go to the semifinals.”
His optimism is buoyed by the support of his teammates and the rigorous preparation they’ve undergone. “We’ve been preparing for a long time, since early 2023,” he explains, noting that their training even included a stint in Sri Lanka.
This intense regime, he added, has sharpened the team’s skills, and he believes they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Hariz’s aspirations extend beyond the Sukma Games. He has his sights set on joining the Malaysian national team.
“My goal is to be a Malaysian player under 25 years old and to be in the senior team,” he reveals.
Though it hasn’t yet caught the attention of national selectors, Hariz remains undeterred, balancing his studies with his cricket ambitions while keeping his long-term goals in focus.
Wednesday’s match against Melaka showcased Hariz’s skills and leadership, as he took five wickets out of the seven that Sarawak claimed. His performance surprised even his coach, Chew Pok Cheong, and reaffirmed Hariz’s role as a crucial player for Sarawak.
Looking ahead to Thursday’s match against Kelantan, Hariz is ready for another challenge.
