Hockey — India Men to tour Australia as part of preparations for 2025 Asia Cup

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team will tour Australia in August for a four-match series, set to be held at the Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21.

The series will provide crucial preparation for India before the 2025 Asia Cup — scheduled in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 29 to September 7— that offers a direct qualification spot for the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026.

The two sides recently faced each other in the FIH Pro League 2024–25 in Europe, where Australia edged India 3–2 in both legs.

However, India had earlier scripted a memorable 3–2 victory over the Kookaburras at the 2024 Paris Olympics — its first Olympic win over Australia since the 1972 Munich Games.

“While these are technically friendly matches, they form a very important part of our preparation phase,” Indian Men’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton said.

“Playing against a team like Australia will test us in all aspects — both on the ball and off it — and that is exactly what we need to sharpen up before a major tournament.”

ALSO READ: Pakistan unsure of participation in FIH Pro League 2025-26 due to cash crunch

While recent encounters have been closely fought, Australia has historically held the edge in the rivalry, winning 35 of the 51 matches played between the two teams since 2013.

India has won nine times, with seven matches ending in draws.

“We have just completed a 10-day training block, and the mood in the camp is upbeat as we are fully focused on what lies ahead. One of our key goals on this tour is to use the first two matches for selection purposes, while the remaining games will be played with the shortlisted squad for the Asia Cup,” Fulton added.

“Our focus is firmly on moving forward — the goal now is to prepare well and go to the Asia Cup with the intent to win it.”