Bengaluru: Captain Harmanpreet Singh on Friday said that facing the formidable Australian team on their home turf will help the Indian men’s hockey team identify key areas for improvement ahead of this month’s Asia Cup, which also serves as a World Cup qualifier.
The Indian team departed in the early hours for Australia, where they will play a crucial four-match series against the hosts at Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21.
“Playing Australia in their home conditions is always a great challenge, and that’s exactly what we need at this stage of our preparations,” Harmanpreet said before the team’s departure.
“Playing Australia in their home conditions is always a great challenge, and that’s exactly what we need at this stage of our preparations,” Harmanpreet said.
The four-match series slated to be held at the Perth Hockey Stadium between the 15th and 21st of August will serve as a proper test ahead of the high-stakes tournament.
“We’re treating this series as a key part of our build-up to the Asia Cup. The focus is on improving as a unit, testing ourselves against strong opposition, and building the momentum we need heading into Rajgir,” the captain added.
“These matches will help us pinpoint the areas that need sharpening before the Asia Cup, and we’re excited about the opportunity to play high-intensity hockey against a top side like Australia,” the 29-year-old said.
The sides will clash in the opening game of the series on the 15th, with the second game on the very next day. The third fixture between the teams is slated to be held on the 19th before the series concludes on the 21st of the month.
The squad comprises a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, who will be closely monitored as the final group for the Asia Cup is determined.
The tour is anticipated to provide valuable match exposure against one of the world’s highest-ranked teams, offering the coaching staff an opportunity to fine-tune combinations and assess player form ahead of the continental tournament.
The Asia Cup is set to be hosted in Rajgir, beginning on the 29th of August 29, with the champions securing a direct berth to the World Cup.
