SIBU: Defending champion Sibu Division Rugby Union (SDRU) is gunning for a record 17th title in the Sarawak Rugby Union (SRU) President Cup to be held at SMK Sacred Heart rugby field on Aug 16-17.
SDRU chief coach Michael Ting vowed that no stone would be left unturned in their bid to retain the title.
“It is a difficult battle but it is not an insurmountable task to defend the title.
“With the team making early preparation, there is every indication that we will let the momentum fly and keep the title again,” he said.
Four teams are expected to compete in the two-day championship.
They are Kuching Rugby Football Union (KRFU) and SHOAW Old Boys from Kuching representing the southern zone, Miri Division Rugby Union (MDRU) for the northern zone and SDRU, the central zone.
Ting picked KRFU as their main challenger, noting that the Kuching side have several foreign players.
“Both SHOAW Old Boys and MDRU are also coming not just to make the numbers. They are also eyeing the title,” he added.
Sibu, he continued, would again be relying on their only Fijian, 26-year-old Iowane Sovatabua Taukeisalili, to power the team.
Iowane was among four Fijians attached to SDRU since 2011. The other three have since left.
Ting remains confident his team still pack a potent blend of youth and experience.
“SRDU players comprised mostly of school leavers of College Vokasional Sibu and SMK Sacred Heart. We also have some players who have been playing regularly for the team. We have been the champion for 16 times and we do not see any reason why we should not retain the title yet again this year.”
The team have their regular training at SMK Sacred Heart rugby field from 5 to 7pm.
Sibu have been champions for 16 of the 18-year history of the SRU President Cup.
KDRU took the title on the other two occasions.
Ting is also glad that the tournament will be held in August instead of the usual June.
“So after the SRU’s Cup, the players will still be fresh and have all the spirit and the stamina to go for the Agong’s Cup, slated to be held in Kuala Lumpur in early September.”