Australia Tour ‘A Vital Challenge in Asia Cup Preparation’, Says Captain Harmanpreet Singh
The Indian men’s hockey team is set to face Australia in a four-match series to assess key areas for improvement ahead of the important tournament.
Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh stated that facing the formidable Australian side on their home turf would benefit the Men in Blue as they gear up for the upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled later this month.
The Indian team departed for Australia on Friday for their four-match series against the Kookaburras, aiming to identify crucial improvement areas ahead of the tournament, which also serves as a qualifier for the World Cup.
The four-match series is set to take place at the Perth Hockey Stadium from 15th to 21st August and will act as a solid test in the build-up to the high-profile competition.
“Playing against Australia in their home conditions is always a tough challenge, and it’s exactly what we require at this point in our preparations,” said Harmanpreet.
“We’re treating this series as an essential part of our Asia Cup preparations. The focus is on improving collectively, challenging ourselves against a strong team, and gaining momentum ahead of Rajgir,” the captain added.
“These games will help us identify the aspects that need fine-tuning before the Asia Cup, and we’re looking forward to the opportunity of playing fast-paced hockey against a top-level side like Australia,” the 29-year-old remarked.
The two teams will face off in the opening match of the series on the 15th, followed by the second encounter on the very next day. The third match is scheduled for the 19th, with the series concluding on the 21st of August.
The squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and young talent, who will be closely observed as the final team for the Asia Cup is finalised.
The tour is expected to provide crucial match experience against one of the top-ranked teams in the world, offering the coaching staff an opportunity to fine-tune player combinations and evaluate individual form ahead of the continental championship.
The Asia Cup is slated to take place in Rajgir from 29th August, with the winning team earning a direct spot in the World Cup.
