KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s women’s hockey team is set for a bold new chapter as C.R. Kumar takes the reins as head coach, bringing world-class experience and a proven winning pedigree to rejuvenate the squad ahead of major international challenges.
Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal described Kumar’s appointment, a seasoned coach from India, as a key part of the association’s strategic plan to strengthen the women’s programme and ensure long-term development.
“Kumar is not new to our women’s squad. He led the team between 2002 and 2006, and we are confident that his experience will help raise the performance of our players,” Subahan said in a press conference at the Bukit Jalil national hockey stadium today.
Kumar’s credentials extend beyond Malaysia, with an impressive track record in youth development.
He guided India’s junior men’s team to victory at the 2023 Sultan Johor Cup and the 2023 Junior Asia Cup, and steered them to a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Junior World Cup.
In a move aimed at continuity, former head coach Nasihin Nubli Ibrahim has been reassigned to oversee the national junior women’s squad.
Subahan highlighted the importance of this transition to ensure a structured pathway for nurturing young talent into the senior team.
“Nasihin will focus on developing the junior women’s squad, working closely with Kumar to build a strong and competitive national team for the future,” he said.
The entire coaching staff has been awarded a two-year contract to provide stability and allow sufficient time to mould a high-performing squad.
On performance targets, Subahan revealed that key performance indicators (KPIs) for the women’s team will be announced shortly, with the immediate goal of finishing among the top four teams in Asia.
“Being in the top four in Asia is our primary objective. Coupled with Kumar’s experience and the existing support staff, we are confident this team will gain a new lease of life and compete strongly on the international stage,” he added. – April 3, 2026