Bhopal, May 20: The Indian U18 women’s hockey team finished the series on a strong note, defeating Australia 4-1 in the fourth and final match at the SAI Centre in Bhopal.
Australia struck first in the opening quarter through Aurora Kovacevich (8’), but India quickly responded with captain Sweety Kujur (13’) levelling the score before the end of the quarter.
The hosts took control in the second quarter as Diya (25’) put India ahead 2-1 at halftime. India continued their dominance after the break, with Priyanka Minz (44’) extending the lead in the third quarter, followed by a late strike from Nausheen Naz (50’) to seal a convincing victory.
Despite the final-match win, Australia took the overall four-match series 3-1, having won the first three encounters.
The series is seen as valuable preparation for India ahead of the upcoming U18 Asia Cup in Japan later this month.