India hope to maintain winning momentum against Australia

After a virtuoso performance in an emotionally charged campaign-opener against arch-rivals Pakistan, India will have to maintain the attacking form when they take on Australia in their second Pool B match of the hockey World Cup here on Tuesday.

India produced one of the finest performances in long time in front of a capacity crowd at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium to beat Pakistan 4-1 yesterday and now would want to overcome Australia to brighten their chances for semifinals.

Pumped up by a cheering home crowd, everything clicked for India against Pakistan with the midfield, defence and upfront spot on.

The defence of Sandeep Singh, Diwakar Ram and Dhananjay Mahdik were able to keep at check the dangerous strike duo of Rehan Butt and Shakeel Abbasi throughout the match. The upfront led by Prabhjot Singh, Shivendra Singh and Rajpal Singh created havoc with their fast-paced interchanges, but the difference was the midfield with an outstanding Sardar Singh.

On the other hand, Australia would be an altogether different side with their one-touched fast-paced hit and run style of play and India will have to be extra vigilant as the Kookaburras are now like a wounded tiger after their 2-3 loss to England on Sunday.