China took revenge of their defeat in the fourth test match by defeating Pakistan 4-0 in the fifth and final test match at Changzhou. However, by virtue of their three victories Pakistan has clinched the five match series 3-2.

After leading the series 3-1, Pakistan management had decided to induct untried players to evaluate their performance which, however, left a lot to be desired. With the presence of the officials of the Chinese Hockey Federation, the home side gave a sterling performance. China’s nimble-footed forward line battered the Pakistan defense as they conceded three goals within fifteen minutes of the push-off. Goalkeeper Nasir Ahmed, substituting for Salman Akbar, was left flabbergasted when China fired in three penalty corners in under quarter of an hour. With Pakistani defense at the receiving end, Chinese frontline, coordinating with the midfield, ripped through scoring their fourth goal from a field attempt. China led 4-0 at half time.

To stop the mayhem that the Chinese had wrought, the management replaced Nasir Ahmed with experienced custodian. Salman Akbar and also inducted deep defender Zeeshan Ashraf along with pivot Muhammad Saqlain, Muhammad Irfan and Fareed Ahmed. Pakistan succeeded in stemming the Chinese onslaught and the second half ended goalless. Pakistan got two penalty corners while China earned four.

“After leading the series 3-1,” Coach Naveed Alam said, “We had decided to induct the rest of the players. But unfortunately it didn’t go according to the plan. These players will need more international exposure and experience to be at the top level.”

Source: Pakistan Hockey Federation