Daijiworld Media Network - Perth

Perth, Apr 30: After two back-to-back defeats against Australia A, the Indian women’s hockey team is set to take on the Australian senior team in a three-match series starting May 1 at the Perth Hockey Stadium.

India, led by captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur, lost their first match 3-5 despite goals from Mahima Tete, Navneet, and Lalremsiami. In the second game, they suffered a narrow 2-3 loss, with Jyoti Singh and Sunelita Toppo scoring.

Chief coach Harendra Singh emphasized the tour's focus on exposure rather than results. “This is about experience. Some players are playing abroad for the first time,” he said, adding that new combinations will be tested ahead of the Pro League and World Cup.

He praised young talents like Mahima, Pooja, Sujata, and Ajmina, calling them promising and eager to learn.

India last beat the Australian senior team 1-0 in the FIH Pro League 2023–24. The upcoming matches on May 1, 3, and 5 will be key in shaping the squad’s future prospects.