First step for Malaysia towards 2019 Rugby World Cup

Malaysia's journey to the 2019 Rugby World Cup begins this Saturday when the national team kick off their 2018 Asian Rugby Championship (ARC) campaign at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

The Hibiscus, who secured qualification as last year's ARC Division One champions, will face world No.31 South Korea (April 28 and May 19) and world No.22 Hong Kong (May 5 and 26) at the tournament.

According to national head coach Lee Nyuk Fah, both countries would be stumbling blocks for his side to clinch a place at the World Cup in Japan.

After leading Malaysia to the ARC Division One title and 45th place in the world, Lee wanted to progress further.

"Before this, the national squad were only competing in Division One and Two. Being in the ARC facing Hong Kong and South Korea is a vast improvement for the country,” he added.

If Malaysia emerge as champions, the national team will play in the Asia/Oceania Zone qualifying playoffs to stand a chance of reaching the Repechage round, which is the final hurdle to realise their dream of going to Japan 2019.

Malaysia have yet to make their debut at the Rugby World Cup, which has been held every four years since its inception in 1987.

(Picture: Facebook/Malaysia Rugby Union)