Australia edge India 2-1 in women’s hockey friendly series opener

Australia defeated India 2-1 in the opening match of the four-game women’s hockey friendly series in Perth. Navneet Kaur gave India an early lead, but Abby Wilson’s two penalty-corner goals in the second half sealed victory for the hosts

Hyderabad: The four-match friendly series between the Indian and Australian women’s hockey teams commenced on Tuesday with a close encounter that saw Australia secure a narrow 2-1 victory in Perth.

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 their advantage through the second quarter.

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However, momentum shifted in the second half as Australia’s Abby Wilson capitalised on two penalty-corner opportunities, scoring in both the third and fourth quarters to secure a comeback win for the hosts.

The two sides will meet again on 27 May 2026 at 5:00 PM IST for the second match of the series.