The reigning world champion progressed up the field early in the race with some daring manoeuvres, but a number of spins and off-track excursions hampered his race.
The British driver was disappointed he did not taken advantage of the treacherous conditions but was satisfied with a points finish.
“I love racing in the wet and I would say that was one of my worst wet performances,” Hamilton said.
“I generally have good wet races but this was incredibly tough. I didn’t have any downforce on this car and it was a real struggle but I am glad I got some points for the team.” Sky Sports
Click Here For More Formula 1 Photos
“The conditions were so difficult—it was terrible. It was a little bit of fun at the beginning when I had some grip.
“But then, as always, I don’t know if it is my driving style or my car, we seem to destroy my tyres very early on.
“Especially at the end, there was 20 laps left, and after five laps my front left tyre was finished. So it was just really tough, aquaplaning all over the place.
“I’m sure it was the same for everyone - but I could only do my best. It could have been better, but we have scored points and the car was good and strong so that is compliments to the team back at Woking.” AFP
McLaren have had a torrid start to the season, getting embroiled in problems off the track as well as struggling with an uncompetitive car.
Click Here For More Formula 1 Photos
McLaren took developments to their car to China and Hamilton made it into the top 10 run-off in qualifying for the first time this season, lining up ninth on the grid.
And the drivers’ performance in the race moved the team up to fourth in the constructors’ championship.
“The car’s reliability is fantastic and these were some good points for us, but we need to continue to move forwards.” Hamilton said.
Kovalainen, who had not completed a racing lap in the first two grands prix of the season, added: “Scoring a few points in the difficult conditions was a pretty good end to our weekend.”
“Clearly we are going forwards which is the most important thing and for the next race we will have a few more updates to the car and will try to do even better.” BBC Sport
| 
|