Home
Defending champions India played a 1-1 draw on the opening day of Hockey Asia Cup 2022 on May 23. Karthi Selvam almost made a dream debut as he gave India the lead in the eighth minute itself. Selvam scored off the fourth penalty corner earned by India in the first quarter. The lead stayed with India despite several attacks from Pakistan but they were able to equalise a minute before the final whistle to draw the game.
Suraj kept busy
Goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was kept on his toes by Pakistan attackers in the second quarter which had plenty of action despite being goalless. Arfaz had a simple chance with Suraj Kekara out of sight but he hit it wide despite an open goal in front of him.
More missed opportunities
In the third quarter too Arfraz had another golden chance to equalise but Karkera held his nerves to keep it out. Later, Ijaz Ahmed had a chance too but he hit it wide of the goalpost.
Skipper Birendra Lakra received a green card in the last two minutes of third quarter but Pakistan could not make the most of the opportunity.
In the fourth quarter, India were a man down for two minutes as Uttam Singh received a green card. However, India continued to attack during this period and did not miss the services of Uttam.
Rana stuns India
In the dying stages of the game, three-time Asia Cup winners Pakistan finally managed to convert penalty corner into a goal. Abdul Rana scored the goal after rebound in the 14th minute of fourth quarter. India reviewed the decision but it did not have an effect on the game.
