Pakistan’s national hockey team made a triumphant start in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, defeating hosts and defending champions Malaysia by 5-4 in a thrilling match on the first day on Saturday.

Sufiyan Khan, Pakistan’s drag flicker, scored a hat-trick, while Zakriya Hayat and Abu Bakar Mahmood contributed one goal each to the team’s victory.

Pakistan defeated the hosts in a thrilling fashion as they were trailing the hosts 1-3 till the last quarter. In the last quarter, Pakistan equaled the score 3-3 in the 53^rd minute but Malaysia pulled another one to again take 4-3 lead.

Pakistan equaled and scored winner in the final two minutes to seal the fate of the match in their favour.

The Pakistan hockey team would face Korea in their second match on Sunday (May 5).

This win was a significant boost for the Pakistan team, and they would look to carry this momentum forward in the tournament.

The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is a prestigious international hockey competition, and Pakistan’s participation is a testament to the country’s rich hockey heritage and talent.