Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team Beats Canberra Chill 3-1

September 30, 2025

Canberra: The Indian junior women’s hockey team registered its second consecutive win on the Australia tour, defeating local club Canberra Chill 3-1 at the National Hockey Centre, Canberra. Ishika (13’, 39’) netted twice, while Sonam (27’) added another for India.

Early Setback, Strong Response

The hosts struck first when Naomi Evans (11’) converted a penalty corner. But India responded swiftly as Ishika equalized just two minutes later, also from a penalty corner.

Locked at 1-1, both sides pressed for the lead, and India edged ahead before half-time through Sonam’s field goal in the 27th minute.

India Seals the Win

Midway through the third quarter, Ishika completed her brace (39’) to extend India’s advantage to 3-1. From there, India’s defense held firm, ensuring no further breakthroughs for the home side and sealing a confident victory.

Crucial Tour Ahead of World Cup

India has now won two and lost two matches on the tour. The team, led by captain Jyoti Singh and coached by Tushar Khandker, will play its final match against Canberra Chill on October 2.

The Australia tour is part of India’s preparations for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025, scheduled for December in Santiago, Chile.

Earlier in June, the side toured Europe, defeating Belgium thrice, beating Australia once, and narrowly losing to the Netherlands in a shootout — results that underline the promise of this young squad.