Indian women's hockey team suffered a 1-2 defeat at the hands of fifth-ranked China in the last pool game of the 2016 Hawkey's Bay Cup. The match started slowly, with most of the battles taking place in the midfield and both teams struggling to penetrate the circle. China had the best opportunity of the quarter with a penalty corner which was well saved by Savita in goal to take the teams to the break tied 0-0. After the goalless first quarter, Rani scored off a swiftly worked counter from the right to open India's account in the 19th minute. China immediately hit back, and won a PC of their own, but another save from Savita ensured India went into the break with their lead intact. The third quarter saw resolute defending from India, as China controlled most of the possession. Monika in particular was very good at marshalling the defence and dropping deep to ensure the numbers denied China openings for goal. With the last play of the quarter though, China scored the equaliser through Yu Qian.