India’s dismal performance in Australia continued as they suffered a 1-3 defeat in the fourth Test of the five-match men’s hockey series. Despite an improved display, the Kookaburras proved too strong, securing their fourth consecutive victory.
The match, delayed by lightning, saw all four goals scored from penalty corners. India took the lead through skipper Harmanpreet Singh in the 12th minute, but Jeremy Hayward’s brace (19th, 47th) and Jack Welch’s strike (54th) handed Australia another win.
India had been decimated 1-5 in the opening Test and lost the second and third Tests 2-4 and 1-2 respectively. However, they showed signs of improvement in the fourth Test, matching Australia in the first quarter.
Mandeep Singh had an early chance for India, but his shot was saved by the Australian goalkeeper. The Kookaburras responded with back-to-back penalty corners, but veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh made twin saves to deny them.
India used the midfield more effectively than in previous games, building attacks with fine ball transfer. They secured their first penalty corner in the 10th minute, but Jugraj Singh failed to convert.
Australia earned their third and fourth penalty corners, but the Indians defended stoutly. India took the lead when Harmanpreet converted their second penalty corner with a low and hard flick.
The Kookaburras responded quickly, with Hayward converting their fifth penalty corner. Rajkumar Pal’s reverse hit hit the post for India, and Australia secured their sixth penalty corner, but reserve goalkeeper Suraj Karkera made a brilliant save.
The second half saw India secure another penalty corner, but Harmanpreet failed to breach the Australian defense. Australia earned back-to-back penalty corners in the final quarter, with Hayward converting the second.
The hosts kept up the pressure, securing two more penalty corners but failing to utilize them. Welch scored Australia’s third goal from another penalty corner six minutes later.
India had chances in the form of three penalty corners in the last four minutes but wasted the opportunities. The final Test of the series will be played on Saturday.
