KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia are keen to bid for the 2022 men's and women's World Cups.
This was revealed by Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal on Thursday.
Subahan said the confidence to bid arose after the International Hockey Federation (FIH) approached Malaysia to host the final of the Hockey Series, which is a qualifier for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
"I will meet members of the MHC executive board soon to get their approval to host the Hockey Series finals in Kuala Lumpur next year,” said Subahan.
"And I will also put forward to the board the idea to bid both the men and women's World Cups in 2022.
"I have spoken to Terry Walsh (MHC technical director) on these matters, and if the board approve, we will officially write in to FIH and bid for the World Cups.
Malaysia last hosted the men's World Cup in 2002 where they finished eighth.
"And if this plan becomes a reality, our women will experience playing in the World Cup for the first time.
"I believe Malaysia will have no problems hosting both the World Cups. I also believe our men and women's teams will be ready to put up a good challenge by then," said Subahan.
Meanwhile, national coach Stephen van Huizen named his 20-member squad for the tour of Argentina on May 25-June 2.
Van Huizen included No 1 goalkeeper S. Kumar, who served out his six-month doping ban recently.
"Kumar has been training very hard since the ban was lifted. I feel he should be given a chance to play in Argentina," said Van Huzien.
Malaysia will play six friendly matches with Argentina during the tour.
