[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Pakistan maintained their undefeated streak in the 30th Azlan Shah Hockey Cup tournament by securing a draw against New Zealand in Ipoh city, Malaysia. The match ended in a stalemate, with each team earning a point, as confirmed by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).
Senior player Ammad Shakeel led the 18-member squad, with Abu Bakr serving as vice-captain. Japan currently leads the standings with 13 points, followed by Pakistan in second with 11 points. New Zealand holds third place with seven points, while Malaysia trails closely behind with six points.
Read more: Pakistan Reaches To Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Final After 13 Years
The first half of the match saw no goals, but New Zealand broke the deadlock with a field goal in the 35th minute. Pakistan responded with a goal from Abu Bakr during a penalty corner in the 43rd minute. Both Pakistan and Japan secured their places in the final match, scheduled for Saturday at 5:30pm (PKT) at the Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh.
Pakistan won three matches against Malaysia, South Korea, and Canada, with draws against Japan and New Zealand. Japan, after their 3-1 win against Canada, have amassed four victories along with a draw.
Looking ahead, head coach Roelant Oltmans expressed optimism for Pakistan’s performance in the tournament, anticipating an improved display from the team. Oltmans, with extensive experience, has been involved with Pakistan’s senior and junior teams since 2004 and recently engaged with the youth side.
In previous editions, Pakistan clinched the Azlan Shah Cup title thrice—in 1999, 2000, and 2003—and secured third place in the 2022 edition, also held in Ipoh. Malaysia holds the title of defending champions for this year’s tournament.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
