KUALA LUMPUR: National sepak takraw squad head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun is resigned to the fact that one of his key players - Noraizat Nordin - could miss next year's Malaysia SEA Games due to a long-term injury.
Jais confirmed that Noraizat, who was sidelined for the recent Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, will have to go under the surgeon's knife to help him recover from an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee.
"We are working closely with the National Sports Institute (NSI) in managing Noraizat's injury. The doctors from NSI will advise where it is best for Noraizat to get the surgery done. We do not want to take too long before the surgery is done," said Jais yesterday.
"Once he has done the surgery, the recovery process will take a long time, at least six months before he can return to training. It could take longer.
"There are a lot of factors to consider, this includes his own desire and determination to come back from the injury.
"So if it does take six months, he will be left with only five months before the Malaysia SEA Games (Sept 18-27)."
Jais said he has to be prepared with a plan if Noraizat is unable to return to full fitness in time for the Games.
"We have to plan effectively, in case his recovery takes longer than expected. We have to have a plan A and a plan B," he said.
"We have to determine who can replace him if he cannot make the squad, especially in the doubles event.
"This is something we have to discuss together with the Malaysia Sepak Takraw Federation, National Sports Council and NSI."
Noraizat, who plays in the killer position, was part of the squad that won the men's team event gold at the Thailand SEA Games last year.
He also won the men's doubles gold with partner Aidil Aiman Azwawi during the 2024 World Cup, when they beat Thailand in the final.
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