Pakistan held India to a thrilling 3-3 draw in their third group-stage match of the Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Tuesday, in a contest that showcased the best of Asian hockey and mutual respect between the arch-rivals.
Pakistan captain Hannan Shahid opened the scoring in the fifth minute, calmly converting a penalty stroke to give his side an early lead. The Green Shirts continued to dominate the opening quarter with quick passing and sharp counterattacks, earning another penalty corner in the 10th minute but failing to capitalise.
India pressed hard for an equaliser but were denied by Pakistan’s organised defence. The second quarter saw India reduced to 10 men when Anmol Ekka received a yellow card, yet Pakistan could not add to their lead despite the advantage.
The third quarter brought renewed energy as Sufyan Khan converted a penalty corner in the 39th minute to make it 2-0 for Pakistan. However, India fought back fiercely. Araijeet Singh Hundal converted a penalty stroke in the 43rd minute, followed by goals from Sourabh Anand Kushwaha (47’) and Manmeet Singh (53’), giving India the lead for the first time.
Pakistan refused to give up, and in the 55th minute, Sufyan Khan scored his second goal from another penalty corner to level the match 3-3. Both teams pushed hard in the dying minutes but had to settle for a draw.
The fiercely contested fixture ended on a positive note as Indian and Pakistani players shook hands after the final whistle, a gesture of sportsmanship following the recent cricketing tensions between the two nations.
India remain unbeaten in the tournament and will face Australia next, while Pakistan continue their campaign seeking a semifinal spot.
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