Pakistan Outclassed! India's Young Hockey Team Delivers Another Statement Win

India's sub-junior boys continued their impressive unbeaten run in the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship with commanding victories over Pakistan and hosts Oman in the Elite Pool, strengthening their bid for qualification to the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.

The team, captained by Ketan Kushwaha, began the day with a ruthless 14-0 demolition of Oman. Kushwaha led from the front by scoring four goals, while Ashish Tani Purti completed a hat-trick. Rahul Yadav and Shahrukh Ali struck two goals each, with Prahalad Rajbhar, Karan Gautam and Romit Pal also joining the scoresheet in a one-sided contest that showcased India's attacking depth.

India then carried the momentum into a much-anticipated clash against Pakistan, emerging 7-4 winners after another clinical display. Karan Gautam starred with a brilliant hat-trick, while Rahul Yadav, Prahalad Rajbhar, skipper Ketan Kushwaha and Romit Pal added one goal each to seal an important victory against their traditional rivals.

The Indian girls also enjoyed a productive day despite being denied a clean sweep. They fought back from an early deficit to draw 2-2 against China, with Nousheen Naz scoring twice before China equalised in the closing stages.

The girls responded emphatically in their second outing, crushing Uzbekistan 16-0. Nousheen Naz once again stole the show with four goals, while Sandeepa Kumari and captain Sweety Kujur registered hat-tricks. Diya and Pushpa Manjhi added braces, with Kiran Ekka and Nilam Topno also finding the net.

With dominant performances from both teams, India has strengthened its position in the Elite Pool as the tournament continues. The championship also serves as the qualifying event for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup, adding further significance to every match.