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Johor Tigers Determined to Bring Home the Agong's Cup
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡พ Malaysia /Sports

Johor Tigers Determined to Bring Home the Agong's Cup

From Utusan Malaysia · (5m ago) Malay Positive tone

Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Johor rugby team aims to end a nine-year drought by winning the 42nd Agong's Cup.
  • The team, bolstered by four import players including former Samoa World Cup player Tim Nanai-Williams, is determined to win after a narrow loss in the previous final.
  • Johor is in Group B with Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), with their last victory in 2017.

The Johor Tigers are roaring with determination to reclaim the Agong's Cup after a nine-year hiatus. This prestigious tournament, now in its 42nd edition, is more than just a competition for Johor; it's a chance to avenge last year's heartbreaking one-point loss to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), who clinched their third consecutive title.

Our squad has been significantly strengthened with the inclusion of four foreign imports, including the formidable Tim Nanai-Williams, a former Samoa World Cup player. Alongside him, Fijian talents Kolinio Yabia Tamanitoakula and Turuva Serupepeli, along with New Zealanders Adam Brash and Blake Makiri, will don the Johor jersey. We also welcome naturalized players Weyers Ryno and Sae Faalupega, adding depth and experience to our campaign.

Turut menyarung jersi JRU adalah Kolinio Yabia Tamanitoakula dan Turuva Serupepeli (Fiji) serta Adam Brash dan Blake Makiri (New Zealand) selain dua pemain naturalisasi iaitu Weyers Ryno dan Sae Faalupega.

โ€” Datuk Mohd. Noorazam OsmanDescribing the strengthened Johor Tigers squad for the Agong's Cup.

Preparations have been rigorous, with early training commencing late last year. Our participation in the Singapore Rugby League and the 'Tour Sri Lanka' provided crucial international exposure, honing our players' skills and strategies. This intensive preparation makes our mission to win the Agong's Cup this year not just a realistic goal, but a dominant pursuit.

We are not merely participating; we aim to dominate and bring the coveted trophy back to Johor. Our journey begins in Group B, alongside Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM). The last time Johor tasted victory in this championship was in 2017, and this year, under the guidance of former All Blacks captain Rodney Soโ€™oialo, we are confident in achieving our championship aspirations. The investment in sports science and overall team development reflects our unwavering commitment to this goal.

Misi kita jelas untuk memenangi kejohanan Ragbi Piala Agong tahun ini. Kita bukan sekadar bermain tetapi mahu mendominasi dan membawa pulang piala berprestij ini ke Johor.

โ€” Datuk Mohd. Noorazam OsmanStating the team's clear objective to win the Agong's Cup.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.