Hockey Focus: India Women Gear Up For Nations Cup With Australia Tour

The Indian women’s hockey team is set to begin an important overseas assignment with a four-match tour of Australia later this month, as the side intensifies preparations for the upcoming FIH Women’s Nations Cup in New Zealand . The tournament carries massive significance for India, as winning the competition would secure promotion back into the prestigious FIH Pro League after relegation last year.

India will face Australia in four matches at the Perth Hockey Stadium between May 26 and May 30 . The series is expected to provide the team with a strong competitive platform before heading to Auckland for the Nations Cup, scheduled from June 15 to 21 .

The tour comes at a crucial time for the Indian side, which has shown promising signs in recent months. Earlier this year, the team impressed during its Argentina tour , finishing with two wins from four matches and displaying improved composure against strong opposition. Since returning, the players have been undergoing rigorous training at the national camp in SAI Bengaluru , focusing on fitness, structure, finishing, and defensive discipline.

Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne said the Australia tour would help the squad measure its progress and identify areas that still need improvement before the high-pressure Nations Cup begins.

According to the coach, the conditions in Perth are also expected to help the players adapt better before arriving in colder New Zealand conditions. The team management believes breaking the long journey into stages will assist faster acclimatisation and reduce fatigue ahead of the tournament.

Another major boost for the squad will be a specialised drag-flick training programme for Indian drag-flickers under Dutch legend Taeke Taekema. The training clinic, supported by Anandana and the Coca-Cola India Foundation , will take place in Perth and Auckland from May 26 to June 21 .

With a packed international calendar ahead and the dream of returning to the Pro League still alive, the Australia tour could play a defining role in shaping India’s preparations and confidence before one of its most important tournaments of the year.