India face well-oiled Oz in key Azlan Shah tie
IPOH: 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 on Tuesday.
After one loss and a draw, India are currently placed fourth in the six-team event with just one point. Australia, on the other hand, are positioned atop with two wins from as many games.
And come Tuesday India cannot afford another loss if they wish to stay afloat. But it would be easier said than done as Australia have fielded a strong squad 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 two games respectively, Australia beat England 4-1 before getting the better of hosts Malaysia 3-1.
The Indians looked lacklustre in the two games and wasted chances, including as many as nine penalty corners against England. But if Sjoerd Marijne’s team wants to upstage the Kooka-
SHUBHANKAR, on not winning
burras, they cannot afford to miss chances, especially against an opponent as attacking as Australia. Skipper Sardar has to lift his game significantly and inspire the youngsters.
For Sardar, it is a make or break tournament. He has to deliver to be in fray for important tournaments later this year as an ordinary outing can draw curtains on his international career.
With the Gold Coast Common- wealth Games a month away, it would be one last time for the Indian players, including Sardar to impress upon the selectors.
A favourable result against Australia would definitely brighten India’s chances as they play hosts Malaysia (on March 7) and minnows Ireland (March 9) in their last two matches.
In other matches of the day, England play Ireland while Argentina take on Malaysia.