Perth, Apr 6:
The Indian Men’s Team is primed and ready toembark on a thrilling hockey showdown as they gear up to face Australia in an eagerly anticipated five-match Test series, which kicks off from April 6 here, marking a crucial juncture in India’s preparations for the ParisOlympics 2024.
With the other four matches scheduled on April 7, 10, 12 and 13, fans are in for a treat as they witness a display of raw talent and unwavering determination.
Fresh from their commanding performances in the FIH Pro League 2023-24, where theye xhibited sheer dominance in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, the Indians quad, which is led by Harmanpreet Singh, enters this serieswith a formidable reputation.
Their exceptional skill and unwavering resilience, culminating in victory in three out of four matches in Bhubaneswar (in regulation time) and maintaining an unbeaten streak in Rourkela (in regulation time), have raised the bar for theirperformanceagainst Australia.
Indian team’s chief oach Craig Fulton explained the significance of this tour, stating, “This series serves as a litmus test for our team’s preparedness ahead of the Paris Olympics. We aim to fine-tune ourstrategies and identify areas for improvement toensure we are in peakform for the mega event. Our focus will be onexecuting our game planeffectively and adapting to the challenges posedby the Australianside.”
Captain Harmanpreet Singh echoed the sentiment, declaring, “We are geared up for the challenge that lies ahead. Every match is an opportunity for us to showcase our skills and make our nation proud. We are aware of the tough competitionAustraliapresents, but we are confident in our abilities and ourpreparations. A sa team, we are united and determined to give our beston the field. Ourgoal is to not only perform well in this series butalso to learn andgrow as a unit, laying a strong foundation for ourcampaign in the ParisOlympics.”
Moreover,with Australia drawn in the same Group B as India in the Paris Olympics, the stakes are higher than ever. TheTest series provides theperfect platform for both teams to gauge eachother’s strengths andweaknesses before the ultimate showdown in Paris.
Furthermore, history beckons for the Indian team as they aim to end a decade-long drought in a Test series win against Australia. Notably, India won the last Test series against Australia on their own soil in 2014.
With India ranked fourth and Australia fifth in the current world rankings, thestage is set for a gripping battle between two hockey powerhouses.
