The Indian men’s hockey team will head to Australia in mid-August for a crucial four-match bilateral series that will serve as a tune-up ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. The matches are scheduled to take place at the Perth Hockey Stadium on August 15, 16, 19, and 21.
India, currently ranked eighth in the world, will take on sixth-ranked Australia in what is expected to be a highly competitive series. The two teams have shared a closely contested rivalry in recent years, with Australia securing narrow 3–2 wins in both legs of their recent FIH Pro League 2024–25 faceoff in Europe. However, India made headlines earlier this year by defeating Australia 3–2 at the Paris Olympics — their first Olympic win over the Kookaburras since 1972.
Despite India’s recent improvements, Australia continues to have the historical advantage in head-to-head contests, having won 35 of the 51 matches played since 2013. India has claimed victory in nine, while seven games have ended in draws.
The upcoming series carries added significance for India as it precedes the Asia Cup 2025, to be held in Rajgir, Bihar from August 29 to September 7. The tournament will act as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026, making the Australia tour a vital component of India’s preparation phase.
Indian chief coach Craig Fulton stressed the importance of the tour, stating that the matches, though friendly in nature, will provide a valuable test against one of the world’s top sides. “This tour comes at a crucial time for us, just ahead of the Asia Cup in Bihar. 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,” Fulton said.
He added that the team has just concluded a focused 10-day training block, and spirits are high within the squad. “Our plan is to use the first two games for selection trials. The final two matches will be played with the squad that will head to the Asia Cup. We are moving forward with a clear intent — to win in Bihar and secure our place in the 2026 World Cup.”
With preparations in full swing, the Australian tour is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s final lineup and strategy for the high-stakes continental competition.
