Adel Al Hendi has declared the UAE are “here to make a statement” as they head into the first leg of the Asian Under-20 Sevens Series in Malaysia Friday.

The 20-year-old Abu Dhabi Harlequins’ winger has been named captain for the Series as the UAE take on hosts Malaysia, Singapore and Kazakhstan in Pool 1, hoping for good results and a chance to play for a medal.

Al Hendi is expecting the toughest test to come from Malaysia, but he believes the new-look UAE team can spring a surprise. In their last outing in Hong Kong in December, the UAE won two of their seven games, but three defeats were by just two points.

“I reckon Malaysia will be the team to beat. Apart from being the home team they’re skillful and know what they’re doing. If we can shut them down though, hold possession and stick to our plan there’s not much that sides will be able to do to defend against us.

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“I’m not sure what to expect of Singapore as I’ve not seen them play. Kazakhstan will be physical but the boys are up for it and we’re here to make a statement.”

The UAE will be hoping for an improvement on last year Series when they finished in a three-way tie for sixth out of nine teams taking part.

“I think we can surprise a few people and being captain for my last season is enough to get me in gear,” Al Hendi added.