KUALA LUMPUR: NATIONAL coach Mohd Poad Md Kassim is hoping newly crowned Asean sprint king Khairul Hafiz Jantan will do just as well in the Kuala Lumpur Sea Games (KL2017) 200m event today.
Poad is optimistic Hafiz's success in the 100m yesterday will give him added confidence to achieve a double in the 200m.
He is, however, wary of the tough competition he will face in the event.
"I hope Hafiz will make the final (in 200m). I believe he has a 50-50 chance of winning," said Poad.
"It won't be easy as Thailand and Philippines are both strong in this event. Nevertheless, I hope Hafiz will be at his best".
Le Trong Hinh of Vietnam won the 200m in Singapore two years ago in a time of 20.89s, which is slightly faster than Hafiz's personal best (PB) of 20.90s. Hafiz's PB is also the national record.
Poad added that he felt grateful that Hafiz was able to deliver the 100m gold.
"Hafiz ran well in the 100m. I am satisfied with his timing as the pressure at the Sea Games is much higher and anything can happen.
"I hope he will continue to focus on improving and not be distracted by the popularity and attention he is receiving now".