Kanika Siwach nets the decisive goal as India registers their first victory for Indian Junior Women’s Hockey of the Australia Tour
Canberra, 29th September 2025: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team registered a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Australia U21 side in their third match of the ongoing Australia Tour at the National Hockey Centre on Monday. Midfielder Kanika Siwach proved to be the difference-maker, striking in the 32nd minute to give India their first win of the tour and a timely confidence boost after two consecutive losses to the same opponent.
The visitors entered the game under pressure, having suffered back-to-back defeats to the Australian juniors in their first two encounters of the series. Determined to reverse their fortunes, the Indian side, led by a young but spirited squad, showed better organisation and composure from the opening whistle. Both teams engaged in a tactical battle during the first half, with Australia dominating possession in phases while India focused on maintaining a tight defensive structure and looking for counterattacking opportunities.
The opening two quarters were marked by end-to-end exchanges but neither side could break through. India’s backline, marshalled by a disciplined defence and an alert goalkeeper, stood tall against a flurry of Australian circle entries, especially during two penalty corners in the second quarter. The Indian midfield, spearheaded by captain Hina Bano and playmaker Reet Kaur, worked tirelessly to disrupt the Australian build-ups and create quick transitions.
The breakthrough came shortly after the restart. In the 32nd minute, Kanika Siwach capitalised on a loose ball inside the circle, showing excellent awareness and stickwork to slot in a precise field goal that beat the Australian goalkeeper. The strike not only gave India the lead but also shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.
Following the goal, India grew in confidence and began to dictate the tempo in midfield. Their pressing game forced turnovers and limited Australia’s attacking options. The Australians, however, responded with renewed aggression, earning a series of penalty corners in the third and fourth quarters. India’s defensive unit, featuring key performances from defenders Ritika Rohidas and Anjali Barla, remained resolute, with the goalkeeper pulling off a couple of crucial saves to preserve the slender advantage.
As the clock ticked down, Australia threw numbers forward in search of an equaliser, but India’s disciplined structure ensured there were no late lapses. The final hooter sparked celebrations among the Indian contingent, marking a morale-boosting win against a strong home side.
This victory carries significant weight for the Indian juniors, who are using this tour as part of their build-up for future international assignments, including next year’s Junior Asia Cup and the 2026 FIH Junior Women’s World Cup. Facing high-intensity matches against one of the world’s top hockey nations provides invaluable exposure for the young squad, many of whom are experiencing overseas competition for the first time.
Coach Tushar Khandker praised the team’s fighting spirit after the match, highlighting their ability to adapt and learn quickly. “The girls showed great determination today. After two close games, they executed our plans well, especially in defence. This win is important for their confidence as we look to develop a strong unit for future tournaments,” he said.
For India, the win not only breaks the losing streak but also underlines the growing depth in their junior programme. Players like Kanika Siwach, who delivered under pressure with her decisive strike, and the defensive trio that kept a clean sheet, demonstrated the team’s ability to compete with top-quality opposition. The Indian Junior Women’s Team will now shift their focus to two matches against Canberra Chill, a club that competes in Australia’s premier Hockey One League. The games, scheduled for 30th September and 2nd October, will provide a different kind of challenge, testing India against a senior domestic outfit known for its physicality and fast-paced style of play.
These matches will also give the coaching staff further opportunities to rotate the squad and assess individual performances in varied conditions. As the tour heads into its final phase, the young Indian side will aim to build on Monday’s victory and carry forward the momentum. A successful finish against Canberra Chill could cap off a valuable learning experience, boosting their readiness for the upcoming international calendar.
The 1-0 triumph in Canberra may appear modest on paper, but for a team in transition, it represents a significant step forward. By overcoming a talented Australian U21 side on their home turf, India’s juniors have not only showcased their potential but also signalled their intent to emerge as serious contenders on the global stage in the years to come.
