A file photograph of Indian males’s hockey staff. They will probably be taking part in Australia in a five-match hockey Test collection beginning on April 6, 2024
| Photo Credit: Biswaranjan Rout
The in-form Indian males’s hockey staff will look to go the “litmus test” that the formidable Australian facet will pose at residence when the 2 face off in a five-match Test collection starting in Perth on April 6.
The collection gives India an opportunity to gauge their strengths and capabilities ahead of the Paris Olympics.
“This series serves as a litmus test for our team’s preparedness ahead of the Paris Olympics. We aim to fine-tune our strategies and identify areas for improvement to ensure we are in peak form for the mega event.
“Our focus will probably be on executing our recreation plan successfully and adapting to the challenges posed by the Australian facet,” chief coach Craig Fulton said.
The away assignment offers the ideal chance for India to break their decade-long dry spell against Australia and secure a Test series win.
Notably, India won the last away Test series against Australia back in 2014.
Fresh from their impressive performances in the FIH Pro League in February, the Indian squad, under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, is approaching this assignment with confidence.
India’s exceptional abilities and unwavering determination were evident as they clinched victories in three out of four matches in Bhubaneswar (within regulation time) and remained unbeaten in Rourkela (also within regulation time). However, they had lost both their matches against Australia.
With the two sides drawn in the same group at the Olympics, the Test series provides the perfect platform for both to gauge each other’s strengths and weaknesses before the ultimate showdown in Paris Games.
“We are equipped for the challenge that lies ahead. Every match is a chance for us to showcase our expertise and make our nation proud. We are conscious of the powerful competitors Australia presents, however we’re assured in our skills and our preparations,” captain Harmanpreet said.
“As a staff, we’re united and decided to offer our greatest on the sector. Our purpose is to not solely carry out nicely on this collection but in addition to study and develop as a unit, laying a robust basis for our marketing campaign within the Paris Olympics.” India and Australia have clashed on the hockey area a complete of 43 instances since 2013, in accordance with knowledge from the FIH Data Hub.
Among these match-ups, Australia have emerged victorious 28 instances, whereas India have celebrated triumph in eight video games. Additionally, seven matches have concluded in a draw.
With India ranked fourth and Australia fifth within the present world rankings, the stage is about for a gripping battle between two hockey powerhouses.
Match begins 2 PM IST.
