MIRI: The Sarawak women’s rugby team continued their winning streak on Tuesday (Aug 20), solidifying their position at the top of Group A with a commanding 14-5 victory over Johor.
This latest triumph boosts Sarawak’s standing with an impressive 69 points, far ahead of Penang (20 points), Johor (0 points), Melaka (-24 points), and Kedah (-65 points).
Rohizat Achop Borhan, the rugby sports development officer, expressed confidence in the team’s performance and their prospects moving forward.
“Yes, we have silver in our hands. Our women’s target starts with bronze first, one step at a time. But I ask the prayers of all Sarawakians for the success of both women and men’s rugby as we aim to advance to the next round.”
When asked if the women’s rugby team has ever won a medal in previous Sukma Games, Rohizat revealed, “Before this, women’s rugby was consistently in the top five, never surpassing that. The 2018 season was the same, and in Kuala Lumpur 2022, we finished in fifth place. Our target then was to reach the semi-finals, taking it step by step.”
Rohizat noted the team’s improved performance this year, citing the strategic preparation and robust management behind their success.
“This time, the women’s team is better than the others. We’re prepared with a more robust team, including technical aspects, psychological training, and overall team management. That’s why we’re ready to face any team.”
He added that while the team consists of mostly new players—90 per cent of the team is composed of fresh faces—there is still a strong foundation with five returning players from the last Games.
“We’re going to have to wait for the new games to be released, but we’re confident in our team’s capabilities.”
