Australia hands heavy defeat to India in Azlan Shah

Australia went on a scoring spree, netting in the 5th, 13th, 20th and 26th minutes to build a sizeable 4-1 lead. Matt Gohdes completed India’s humiliation with a fine diving effort in the last quarter to seal it 5-1 with India's lone goal coming from Rupinder Pal in the 8th minute of the game.

Sardar Singh-led Indian team suffered a humiliating defeat against Australia on Thursday.

India were thumped 1-5 by Australia in a Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey match here on Thursday. Blake Govers put Australia ahead in the fifth minute but India swiftly restored parity three minutes later through Rupinder Pal Singh.

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But Australia then wrested the initiative and went on a scoring spree, netting in the 13th, 20th and 26th minutes to build a sizeable 4-1 lead and put the game to bed.

Jacob Whetton started the onslaught, assisted by Jamie Dwyer, tapping in from close range as Australia ended the first quarter 2-1 ahead. Eddie Ockeden extended Australia’s lead in the second quarter before Simon Orchard made it 4-1.

India was able to play out a goalless third quarter but Matt Gohdes completed India’s humiliation with a fine diving effort in the last quarter.

India began its campaign with an underwhelming 2-1 win against Japan and its latest performance was not remotely inspiring. It will next take on Canada on Sunday.