ARCH rivals India and Pakistan played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in their
group stage of the 13 th Sultan of Johor Cup at the Johor Hockey Stadium
today.
A warm high-five gesture between the Pakistani and Indian players
prevailed before the start of the match after the national anthems of both
nations was played.
The atmosphere at the stadium was one of excitement, filled with almost
2,500 fans from both divides who came early to cheer their teams. They
were all extremely well-behaved throughout the match.
India and Pakistan got off the blocks fast and made early breakthroughs,
dominating ball possession and multiple circle penetration. The Blue Shirts
earned their first penalty corner in the third minute but could not convert
into goal.
Pakistan scored through team captain Abul Hannan Shahid (5 th ), and
penalty corner specialist Sufyan Khan (39 th , 55 th ) while for India, Araijeet
Singh Hundal (43 rd ), Sourabh Anand Kushwaha (47 th ) and Manmeet Singh
netted goals.
India will next play Australia on 15 th October (Wednesday) while Pakistan
entertains New Zealand. Meanwhile, Australia and India share seven-equal
points, followed by Pakistan (4), Malaysia (4), Great Britain (3) and New
Zealand at the base with no points.
Pakistan head coach, Kamran Ashraf said: “Pakistan made a dramatic
comeback and was leading very well. I think it was a fantastic game. Before
the match I had emphasized to the players that we should play disciplined
hockey and keep our emotions in check, especially in this match.”
India’s head coach PR Sreejesh, however, wished the Blue Shirts had scored
more goals.
“Well, from our perspective, we certainly had opportunities we created but
couldn’t convert. Our defence was good, the plans were solid, but we
couldn’t execute them in a proper way. So, that’s definitely a key learning
point we need to take forward.”
“From an audience perspective, absolutely, it was a fantastic match. They
enjoyed the ups and downs, the skills, the goals, the counterattacks – it was
great entertainment.”
