Australian Women's Hockey team edge India 2-1 in opening match of friendly series
New Delhi, May 26
The four-match friendly series between the Indian and Australian Women's Hockey Teams commenced on Tuesday with a close encounter that saw Australia secure a narrow 2-1 victory in Perth.
India struck first in the opening quarter, with Navneet Kaur converting a penalty corner to give her side an early lead. The Indian defence remained resolute for much of the first half, successfully maintaining their advantage through the second quarter, according to a press release.
However, momentum shifted in the second half as Australia's Abby Wilson capitalised on two penalty-corner opportunities, scoring in both the third and fourth quarters to secure a comeback win for the hosts.
The two sides will meet again on 27 May 2026 at 5:00 PM IST for the second match of the series.
The 22-member Indian squad features an exciting mix of youth and experience, with rising talents Sonam, Hina Bano and Lalthantluangi eagerly waiting for their opportunity. Currently ranked 9th in the FIH World Rankings, the Indian team is ready to pull out all stops to challenge their 8th-ranked opponents.
Indian squad:Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas
Midfielders: Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Neha, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Deepika Soreng, Sonam
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Baljeet Kaur, Deepika, Annu, Ishika, Hina Bano, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So proud of the team. Australia is a top side and we held them to 2-1 away from home. The young players like Sonam and Hina Bano getting a chance is great for the future. Consistency in penalty corner conversion is something we need to improve on.
Great match from both sides! Australia showed their class in the second half, but India were very competitive. Love seeing women's hockey grow globally.
Nice to see such a close contest. One small improvement in marking during penalty corners could have changed the result. The future looks bright for Indian women's hockey with this mix of youth and experience. Hope the team bounces back in the next match.
Good performance overall but we need to be sharper in the final quarter. The defence was solid until fatigue set in. Salima Tete and Lalremsiami are wonderful players to watch. Let's win the next one! 💪🏑
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