Malaysia sets realistic final targets for cyclists at Commonwealth Games

Malaysia's track cycling team is setting its sights on reaching the finals at the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with head coach Harnizam Basri adopting a realistic approach for key cyclists Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom and Datuk Azizulhasni Awang. Harnizam acknowledged the significantly tougher competition this year, which will feature many of the world's top riders in the keirin and individual sprint events. Therefore, the immediate focus is on securing spots in the finals.

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Our target is to try and win gold, but our opponents are all strong. Azizulhasni is also competing, so what's important now is to focus on reaching the final first.

"Our target is to try and win gold, but our opponents are all strong. Azizulhasni is also competing, so what's important now is to focus on reaching the final first," Harnizam stated. He specified that Shah Firdaus's target is the keirin final, while Azizulhasni is being aimed for the sprint and keirin finals. "Once we are in the final, then we will see the opportunity to chase for medals," he added.

The national track cycling squad is currently in the final preparation phase, with training sessions heavily focused on speed, power, and race simulations. "We are now in the speed and strength phase. All training is more specific to racing, using motor-pacing, race wheels, and higher intensity," Harnizam explained. The team is meticulously preparing to ensure the riders are fully ready for the challenges in Glasgow.

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Once we are in the final, then we will see the opportunity to chase for medals.

In parallel, Harnizam confirmed that Azizulhasni has missed a few days of training due to further checks on his knee. However, he reassured that the 38-year-old's condition is not worrying. The examination is a precautionary measure after Azizulhasni reported knee stiffness over the past two weeks, despite previous scans showing no serious injuries. Alongside Shah and Azizulhasni, the team is also placing hopes on Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri and Nur Alyssa Mohd Farid for the women's keirin and sprint events.

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We are now in the speed and strength phase. All training is more specific to racing, using motor-pacing, race wheels, and higher intensity.