In the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup, Pakistan defeated the Asian champions Japan by 3-5 goals and made a place on the victory stand in the event after 11 years.The third and fourth position match was played between Pakistan and Japan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup played in Ibuah, Malaysia. In the said match, Pakistan defeated Japan by five goals to three in a sensational match. On behalf of Pakistan, Hanan Shahid scored a field goal in the 11th minute, Afraz Ahmed scored a penalty corner in the 18th minute, Roman scored two field goals in the 27th and 31st minutes, and Rana Abdul Waheed scored a field goal in the 53rd minute. While on behalf of Japan, Kentaro scored two goals in the 10th minute, Yuma scored two goals in the 31st and 50th minutes. After 11 years in the event, Pakistan managed to win the bronze medal by securing the third position.
Earlier, Pakistan played the final of the event against Australia in 2011. It should be remembered that 9 talented and young players in Pakistan hockey team started their international career from this event and showed excellent performance in the event. Six teams participated in the said event, including the host team Malaysia, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, South Africa and Egypt.
The final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup will be played tomorrow between the host team Malaysia and Korea.