Ipoh (Malaysia), Mar 5:
Winless so far, India face an uphill task as they take on in-form world champions Australia in a crucial match of the Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament, here tomorrow.
After one loss and a draw, India are currently placed fourth in the six-team tournament with just one point. Australia, on the other hand, are positioned atop the table with two wins from as many games.
And come tomorrow India cannot afford another loss if they wish to stay afloat in the tournament.
But it would be easier said than done as Australia have fielded a strong squad and are in red-hot form while the Indians have come here with an inexperienced team under the leadership of Sardar Singh.
While India lost 2-3 and drew 1-1 against Olympic champions Argentina and England in their first two games respectively, Australia defeated England 4-1 before getting the better of hosts Malaysia 3-1.
The Indians looked lacklustre in the opening two games and wasted numerous chances, including as many as nine penalty corners against England in their second game.
But if Sjoerd Marijne’s team wants to upstage the Kookaburras tomorrow, it cannot afford to miss scoring chances, especially against an opponent as attacking as Australia. (PTI)
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