Hockey Player Tests Positive Malaysian Team Skips Dhaka Tourney

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The Malaysian Hockey Federation said the decision was in compliance with instructions from the National Sports Council that viewed the pandemic seriously. (Bernama pic)KUALA LUMPUR: The national men’s hockey squad has withdrawn from the 2021 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament that will take place in Dhaka, Bangladesh from Dec 14.
Last Tuesday, the Women’s Special Project Squad were not allowed to compete at the 2021 Women’s ACT in Donghae, South Korea after a player tested positive for Covid-19.
The Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) said in a statement that the decision was taken after a national player tested positive for Covid-19.
“The entire team, including the player, is now undergoing the mandatory quarantine as stipulated.
“Based on the SOPs issued by the health ministry, the national men’s squad need to undergo self-quarantine until Dec 14 if they wish to depart to Dhaka, and that would impact the championship schedule,” the federation said.
MHF also said the decision was in compliance with instructions from the National Sports Council that viewed the pandemic situation seriously.
“MHF understands the Malaysian government’s new entry-exit travel procedures, including concerns about the spread of the new Omicron variant.
“Therefore, the MHF will not compromise over the well-being, health and safety of national players,” the statement read.
MHF also announced that the national men’s squad would continue training in preparation for the 2022 Men’s Hockey Asian Cup after their quarantine period ends.
The venue of the tournament, which offers a berth to the 2023 International Hockey Federation Men’s Hockey World Cup in India, has yet to be announced by the Asian Hockey Federation. - FMT

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