With the downslide of Pakistan hockey, much of their storied rivalry with India has been watered down. But that has hardly dulled the intensity with which the teams play against each other.However, the potency of the contest apart, the gap between the two teams is glaring. And not merely in terms of world ranking or recent results, but in fitness, mental strength, and tactics too, India are head and shoulder above Pakistan.
With the two teams set to clash in the Asian Champions Trophy in Hulunbir, China on Saturday, India will go into the match as overwhelming favourite. The defending champions are currently on a four-match winning streak and Pakistan have fared well too. India top the six-team single pool with 12 points, while Pakistan are placed second with two wins and an equal number of draws earning them eight points.
After being held in their first two matches against Malaysia and Korea, Pakistan edged past Japan 2-1 before taking hosts China in their stride with a 5-1 scoreline.Zaman terms his players ‘unpredictable’ and it’s a fact that is not lost on the Indians.
“Past results will not matter when we take on a team like Pakistan. They are a tough side and have the potential to bounce back at any stage in the game. We will look forward to a good match,” stated Indian skipper Harmanpreet Singh.
The Pakistan team is a blend of youth and experience. While skipper Ammad Butt weighs in with experience, the young strikeforce of Ahmad Nadeem and Hannan Shahid can prove to be a handful for the Indian defenders. One player who will be watched is Sufyan Khan, a 20-year-old drag-flicker, who will look to prove himself after Pakistan’s low success rate in penalty corner conversions in the tournament thus far.
On the eve of the match, Butt said, “India have played like true favourites in the tournament so far. But we will take heart from the matches we have played. We have improved in every game and have played disciplined hockey.”
On the other hand, India, having rested a few from the Olympic team, have given youngsters a chance. Striker Gurjot Singh, who was handed a debut against China has given a good account of himself along with other youngsters like Araijeet Singh Hundal, Uttam Singh, and Mohd Raheel.
The strike duo of Sukhjeet Singh and Abhishek has continued with the good form since Paris. The coordination of the youngsters in the frontline has been heartening and promising.
