Career change: Baddrol Bakhtiar in action for Kedah in the Super League. — Kedah FC
PETALING JAYA: From the football field to the political arena?
That’s the transition that veteran midfielder Baddrol Bakhtiar could be making after Sabah announced that their Super League match against Pahang at the Likas Stadium yesterday would be their captain’s last.
Some sources claim that the 35-year-old could return to Kedah but not to don the Canaries’ colours – instead he may be seen in a suit and tie in the state assembly!
It is also learnt that Baddrol may even contest in the state elections on Aug 12.
“Baddrol will make an announcement soon. He could join one of the political coalitions,” said a source.
After his last meeting with Sabah yesterday, Baddrol said: “I hope you guys will pray for my success in whatever career I choose after this. Most importantly, I want this team to join hearts and respect each other. Play for this team, for our family and also our future careers.”
On Friday, Sabah announced that Baddrol will no longer be with the team for the remainder of this season.
“This decision was taken after a mutual agreement with Baddrol for reasons that will only be announced in the near future,” said the club’s statement.
“He will always be a legend at Sabah. His commitment, dedication, enthusiasm and motivation will always be remembered.
“We wish him the best of luck and success in whatever field he ventures into.”
Baddrol has been one of the country’s best midfielders in Malaysia since making his debut for Kedah in the Malaysian League in 2006.
He has played more than 300 games for the northern state, scoring hundreds of goals.
With the Canaries, he won the Super League twice in 2007 and 2008, the FA Cup four times in 2007, 2008, 2017 and 2019, the Malaysia Cup three times in 2007, 2008 and 2016, the Premier League in 2006 and 2015, and the Charity Shield in 2015.
He was also named the Malaysian League’s’ Most Valuable Player in 2017 and won the Best Midfielder Award in 2010, 2017 and 2021.
He played 31 matches with the Malaysian Under-23 team, scoring eight goals.
He also represented Malaysia 64 times at the senior level, scoring six goals.
