Breaking: 2013 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup preponed by two months, to be held from March 8-17

The 22nd edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament will be held at Ipoh, Malaysia from March 8 -17.

The tournament has been preponed by two months – the 2012 edition was held in the month of May-June.

In fact, this is the first time in many years the tournament will be held in the month of March.

The 2012 edition was held in the month of May-June, while the 2011, 2010 and 2008 editions were held in the month of May. Interestingly, the 2009 edition was held in the month of April.

Five teams – hosts Malaysia, defending champions New Zealand, Champions Trophy winners Australia, India and Pakistan have confirmed their participation.

Three teams – England, Netherlands and Germany have declined an invitation from the organizers to take part in the tournament.

The organizers of the 2013 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup are still awaiting confirmation from three other teams – Spain, South Africa and South Korea.

Australia have won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on most occasions – six times, while India have won it five times in 1985, 1991, 1995, 2009 and 2010.

Pakistan have won it thrice while Germany and South Korea have won the crown twice.

England, New Zealand, Netherlands and Argentina have won the trophy once.

India bagged a bronze medal at the 2012 edition, beating Great Britain 3-1 in the play-off match.

India last won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2010, when it was declared joint winners along with South Korea.