India struck first in the opening quarter, with Navneet Kaur converting a penalty corner to give her side an early lead. The Indian defence remained resolute for much of the first half, successfully maintaining its advantage through the second quarter. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, momentum shifted in the second half as Australia\u2019s Abby Wilson capitalised on two penalty-corner opportunities, scoring in both the third and fourth quarters to secure a comeback win for the hosts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two sides will meet again on May 27, 2026, for the second match of the series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The four-match friendly series marks a crucial point in the Indian women's hockey team\u2019s ongoing preparations for the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup New Zealand 2025-26. In four matches on their preparatory tour, the Salima Tete-led squad aims to build vital momentum ahead of the crucial Women\u2019s Nations Cup event<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two sides will meet again on May 27, 2026, for the second match of the series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 22-member Indian squad features an exciting mix of youth and experience, with rising talents Sonam, Hina Bano and Lalthantluangi eagerly waiting for their opportunity. Currently ranked 9th in the FIH World Rankings, the Indian team is ready to pull out all stops to challenge their 8th-ranked opponents. <\/p>\r\n\r\n