BANGKOK: After intensive preparation that included matches against Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Hong Kong, Sarawak’s Nur Dania Syuhada says she is ready to help Malaysia push for medals in the SEA Games T10 Cricket competition starting today (Dec 9).
The 20-year-old from Kampung Tabuan Melayu, Kuching who previously captained Malaysia at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, said the team has made significant improvements over the past months, particularly in quality, confidence, and match awareness.
Dania, described by national women’s head coach Davenell Frederick Whatmore as a “three-dimensional player” with emerging leadership qualities, has been actively involved in Malaysia’s preparation programme.
Her recent stint in Sri Lanka with the national U19 squad, followed by build-up matches against Nepal and Hong Kong has strengthened her readiness for the Games.
“For me, preparations have gone well. I’ve been gaining good experience and match time, especially in Sri Lanka and during the games against Nepal and Hong Kong,”
“Time was limited today because many teams needed the pitch, but we focused on quality. Our team has improved a lot,”she said after training at the Terdthai Cricket Ground.
Malaysia will compete in Group B, which features Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, and Indonesia.
Dania said the opening match against the Philippines today will be crucial in setting the tone for the campaign.
She acknowledged that Thailand—regional powerhouse and defending champions remain the team to beat.
“Thailand has always been strong. I’ve faced them many times but haven’t beaten them recently. This time I’m pushing myself to compete better and help Malaysia get into medal contention,” she said.
Malaysia’s women are aiming to improve on their previous SEA Games outing, where they secured three bronze medals.
