Azlan Shah Cup: Team India face stern Australia test

Team India players celebrate a goal against Great Britain on Saturday

Today's encounter between India and Australia will be a match that India, the Asian Games champions, would love to put it across the World champions and the reigning Azlan Shah champions Australia. Both are on four points with a win and a draw. Fans would want to believe that this is a preview of the clash that would happen again in the final.

After the 1-1 draw against New Zealand, Australia were fluid against Malaysia winning 6-1. India, on the other hand, demolished New Zealand 3-0, importantly, in the 3rd and 4th quarters, shutting the Kiwis out of the match. It's a match that would be dictated by both the coaches - India's Roelant Oltmans and Australia's Colin Batch, both experienced and conscious that India is making rapid strides while Australia would want to continue their hegemony. "It's the most prestigious invitational tournament and every step taken would be in preparation for the 2018 World Cup" Batch said.

Oltmans emphasised that 'every match is a step to the podium.'

Last year's memories probably still hurt India. They played the Aussies twice and lost 1-5 in the league and then 0-4 in the final. But since the 2016 Champions Trophy where both played the final, the gap has been bridged. India are no longer overawed by the Aussies. For a change, even the Aussies know they can be beaten on the counter.