The Indian men's hockey team has embarked on a crucial tour of Australia, viewing it as ideal preparation for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The team departed from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru early Friday morning, August 8, 2025, setting their sights on a four-match series against the host nation. These matches are scheduled to take place at the Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh emphasized the significance of this tour, stating, "Playing Australia in their home conditions is always a great challenge, and that's exactly what we need at this stage of our preparations". He further added, "We're treating this series as a key part of our build-up to the Asia Cup. The focus is on improving as a unit, pushing ourselves against strong opposition, and building the momentum we need going into Rajgir".
The Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar later this month, is not only a matter of regional pride but also a pathway to the World Cup, making it a top priority for the team this year. The winner of the Asia Cup will secure a direct spot in the FIH World Cup.
The Indian squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. The coaching staff will closely monitor all players during the Australia series to fine-tune team combinations and assess individual form ahead of finalizing the team for the Asia Cup.
Harmanpreet Singh expressed a positive outlook on the team's preparedness: "The mood in the camp has been really positive. We've had a good training block and now it's time to translate that onto the field". He also noted that these matches would help identify areas needing improvement before the Asia Cup, and the team is eager to engage in high-intensity hockey against a top-tier team like Australia. The matches are scheduled for August 15, 16, 19, and 21.
Earlier this month, head coach Craig Fulton highlighted the importance of meticulous planning for the Asia Cup, particularly with the possibility of facing arch-rivals Pakistan. Fulton stated, "I'm preparing for Pakistan, and that's how we're approaching it. The worst thing to do is not prepare, and if they arrive, then use the excuse, 'Oh, we didn't think they were coming'".
Fulton also mentioned that the team specifically chose to tour Australia because they wanted to face tougher opponents than they would at the Asia Cup, ensuring they had covered all bases. He believes that playing a top team like Australia will quickly highlight whether they are on track, both physically and tactically.
In preparation for major tournaments, the India A team also traveled to Europe recently, gaining valuable experience against elite teams like the Netherlands, Belgium, and England. Fulton emphasized that these matches were primarily focused on development rather than achieving specific results, with the aim of building depth within the squad.
