The in-form Indian men’s hockey team will be looking to pass the ‘litmus test’ when the formidable Australian side face off in the five-match Test series starting in Perth on Saturday with two matches at home. The series provides India with an opportunity to gauge its strength and capabilities ahead of the Paris Olympics. “This series is a litmus test for our team’s preparations ahead of the Paris Olympics. Our goal is to fine-tune our strategy and identify areas for improvement to ensure we are in top shape for this massive event.
“Our focus will be on effectively executing our game plan and adapting to the challenge presented by Team Australia,” head coach Craig Fulton said.
The away assignment provides India with an ideal opportunity to break their decade-long drought against Australia and secure a Test series victory.
Notably, India won the last away Test series against Australia in 2014.
Fresh off an impressive performance in the International Hockey Federation Pro League in February, Team India, under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, is taking on the task with confidence.
India’s remarkable ability and steadfastness were evident by winning three out of four matches in Bhubaneswar (within time) and remaining unbeaten in Rourkela (also within time). Determination. However, they both lost against Australia.
With both teams drawn in the same group at the Olympics, the Test series provides the perfect platform for both sides to gauge each other’s strengths and weaknesses ahead of the final showdown at the Paris Games.
“We are ready for the challenges ahead. Every game is an opportunity for us to showcase our skills and make our country proud. We realize Australia faces stiff competition, but we are confident in our abilities and preparation, said Captain Harmanpreet.
“As a team, we are united and determined to give our best on the court. Our goal is not only to perform well in this series, but also to learn and grow as a unit to lay a solid foundation for our campaign in the Paris Olympics.” According to the International Hockey Federation Data Center, India and Australia have clashed on hockey rinks a total of 43 times since 2013.
In these matches, Australia has recorded 28 wins while India has recorded 8 wins. Additionally, seven games ended in draws.
With India ranked fourth and Australia ranked fifth in the current world rankings, a fierce battle between the two hockey powerhouses is about to take place.
The match starts at 2 pm (IST).
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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