Indian Women’s Hockey Team Set For Tough Australia Tour Ahead Of Nations Cup

The Indian women’s hockey team will begin a four-match tour of Australia on Tuesday as part of its build-up to the upcoming FIH Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland next month. Led by captain Salima Tete, the side will look to test its combinations, fitness and tactical execution against the world No. 8 Australia women’s hockey team in Perth.

India entered the series with confidence after a promising tour of Argentina earlier this year, where it fought back to draw the four-match series 2–2 after losing the first two games. That performance has added belief within the squad as they aim to build consistency ahead of a packed international calendar.

The team has undergone an intensive training camp at SAI Bengaluru under chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, focusing on structured build-up play, defensive organisation, penalty corner variations and overall match fitness. The camp has been aimed at improving execution under pressure and sharpening decision-making in key phases of play.

The 22-member squad reflects a blend of experience and youth, with senior goalkeeper Savita Punia expected to anchor the defence, while the midfield will be driven by Salima Tete and Lalremsiami. Young players such as Sonam, Hina Bano and Lalthantluangi will be looking to make the most of their opportunities at the international level.

The fixture schedule will see India face Australia on May 26 and May 27 at 17:00 hrs IST, followed by matches on May 29 and May 30 at 11:00 hrs IST, all in Perth.

Captain Salima Tete said the team is upbeat about the challenge, noting that playing Australia on home soil will test their limits and provide the right intensity needed ahead of the Nations Cup. She added that every match in Perth will be important in building momentum and confidence.

Ranked ninth in the world, India will aim to challenge the eighth-ranked Australians and convert their training progress into strong performances across the demanding four-match series.