No winners in hockey series opener

PDS, Oman draw 2-2 in first of five-match series

KARACHI: The opening encounter of Pakistan’s Development Squad's (PDS) five-match test series against Oman, played at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex hockey ground in Muscat on Saturday, ended in a 2-2 stalemate.

For PDS, who are touring Oman as part of Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) initiative to give more international exposure to the up and coming players of the country, Shan Irshad and Mubashar Ali scored a goal apiece, whereas Shafi Talib and Basim found the net for the hosts, with a winner not to be found.

Shajeeh Ahmed, the captain of PDS, seemed content with the overall performance of his unit, although he did admit that they were wasteful in front of the goal.

“We should have won the match as we missed some easy chances and it ended up being a draw,” Shajeeh told The Express Tribune from Muscat. “Nonetheless, it was only the first match."

The skipper also assured his boys will not repeat their mistakes from the opening match and try their best to go on a winning run from here on.

"We have also identified our mistakes, which we will rectify soon, and hopefully win the remaining four matches," said Shajeeh.

Meanwhile, the national team has begun their training camp for the Asia Cup at Abdul Sattar Edhi Hockey Stadium, where they will work on their trade till September 15.