India take on unbeaten Pakistan in Azlan Shah

Wed, May 14 05:02 PM

Ipoh (Malaysia), May 14 (PTI) Buoyed by back-to-back wins over Canada and Belgium, a resurgent India will take on the unbeaten-as-yet arch-rival Pakistan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey tournament, here tomorrow. The much-anticipated match is crucial for India as a win will boost its chances of a respectable finish in the event, while for Pakistan another victory would ensure a majestic passage to the final.

Pakistan, under the new coach Naveed Alam, has been in excellent form here ab intio, winning three while drawing against Argentina 3-3. Their forward line looks formidable having scored 14 goals in just four matches, making it a phenomenal performance for a side that finished sixth here last year.

However, Indian coach Ajay Kumar Bansal is unperturbed by the Pakistanis' remarkable run and exuded confidence of an Indian win tomorrow. "We have to win tomorrow.

If we have to go anywhere near a medal, this win is a must and my boys are aware of this," he said. "I think we will be able to put it across Pakistan", he added.

Bansal felt with both Sandeep Singh and Diwakar Ram in good form, the Indians have a real chance of ending Pakistan's unbeaten run. "There is no reason why they cannot be successful tomorrow also?" he said.

PTI.

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