A dominant India scored in each half to blank Canada 2-0 in the opening game of their seven-match hockey Test series at the University of Victoria Ground in Victoria.

Tushar Khandker struck in the 27th minute while Sandeep Singh sank home a penalty corner in the 66th minute to give India the opening win on Friday.

India took time settling down in cold conditions under lights and were distinctly fortunate in not conceding the lead to Canada in the opening minutes.

Goalkeeper Adrian D’Souza first warded off a reverse from winger Gabbar Singh and followed up with a spectacular save off Taylor Curran’s effort.

Indian forwards missed a few chances midway in the first session with forwards Rajpal Singh, Prabhjot Singh and Gurwinder Chandi shooting wide.

But the Indian deep defence was marshalled majestically by Sardar Singh whose clean tackling and interceptions were lustily applauded by the housefull crowd.

He was ably supported by midfielders Gurbaj Singh and Dhananjay Mahadik who constantly set up the flankmen and other forwards.