National juniors’ No. 2 custodian Muhammad Danish Afnan could not have asked for a better international exposure than given the chance to play in the ongoing Men’s Hockey Junior World Cup at the National Hockey Stadium.
The 20-year-old Danish made a few stunning saves when given the trust and confidence by coach Muhammad Amin Rahim to come on as a substitute for Muhammad Rafaizul, against Australia and Chile in the Pool A matches.
Danish played in the second quarter of the match against the Australians and Chileans in the last quarter, and it was an adventure Danish will cherish for the rest of his life.
“It was my best experience. The Junior World Cup is a big stage, and it is the dream of every young and rising hockey player to compete in it, and I got my chance,” said Danish, who hails from Kuala Lumpur.
“Honestly, I was a little nervous when coach Amin told me to get ready and move in. My heart started pounding faster as it was a big game for me against the Australians. I told myself to stay calm and stay focused. I think I played alright” he added.
The Malaysian youngsters will play New Zealand in the 11-12th classification match tomorrow and must end their adventure in this 13th edition of the JWC on a winning note.
Coach Amin said the match against the Kiwis is crucial for the Young Tigers in determining the final standings in the tournament.
“I will parade the best line-up to face New Zealand,” he said.
In all probalility Muhammad Danish will have have to play second fiddle again.
But Muhammad Danish will always be ready to take the field if called upon and relishes getting more playing time.
The final decision rests with Amin as he too wants to field his best available lineup to end the tournament on a high note.
Malaysia opened their campaign in their Pool A defeating Chile 7-1 before going down to in their remaining two Pool matches 0-4 to Argentina and 2-5 to Australia. In the classification matches from 9th to 16th place, they defeated Egypt 4-1 before losing in a penalty shootout 3-5 after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Now fightning for 11th to 12th spot tomorrow, they have the Kiwis to deal with.
