KUALA LUMPUR: Defending champions Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) will again be the outright favourites at the Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) Premier Sevens on February 23-25.
But despite their impressive track record at the Premier Sevens - four titles in 2011, 2012, 2016 and 2017 - SSTMI coach Syed Shazril Syed Mahadzir has stressed he will not be taking any of their rivals lightly.
"We are still expecting the Premier Sevens to be a very tough competition despite there being only one foreign team competing this year," said Shazril.
"Most of the local teams have very good quality players as the majority of teams competing are champions in their respective states.
"SMK Mersing will be one of the dangerous teams there. We need to respect all opponents and also avoid being overconfident.
"We also need to be wary of MCKK. They have shown a lot of improvement and will be tough to beat in Kuala Kangsar."
Shazril added that his players are mentally and physically prepared for the competition with the team forgoing their Chinese New Year holiday to focus on training.
SSTMI defeated Hong Kong Sports School 38-10 in the Premier Sevens final last season. Singapore-based Australian International School are the only foreign team competing this year.