The Indian Men’s Hockey Team is geared up for their third FIH Pro League 2023/24 encounter against Australia at Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar. Having commenced the season with a 4-1 triumph over Spain and a thrilling 2-2 (4-2 SO) shootout win against the Netherlands, the team is aiming to maintain their winning momentum.
Chief Coach Craig Fulton reflected on the team’s performance, stating, “It’s been a good showing so far, but there’s room for improvement. Playing consecutive matches against top teams is challenging, but with a good break to recover, our focus is on the last two games in Bhubaneswar.”
Australia has also impressed, securing two victories in Bhubaneswar with a 4-3 win against Spain and a 5-0 triumph over Ireland. The upcoming clash between India and Australia recalls their last encounter during the previous FIH Hockey Pro League edition in Rourkela, where India secured a 5-4 win and a 2-2 (4-3 SO) shootout win in a two-legged tie.
Fulton acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “It is surely going to be a tough match. They are coming off solid back-to-back wins. For us, there were a few learnings from the first two games, and our focus will be to improve and better our performance. We are up for the challenge and look to keep the momentum going.”
The Indian team will face Ireland in their final Bhubaneswar leg match on Friday before moving to Rourkela for return fixtures. The India vs. Australia match is scheduled for Thursday, 15th February at 1930 hrs IST.