Women face Japan

Johannesburg, July 19

The Indian women’s hockey team will face Japan in the first of its fifth to eighth place matches in the Hockey World League Semifinal here tomorrow. 

If India win, they will face the winner of the match between South Africa and Ireland. In the semifinals of the World Cup qualifying event, Germany face Argentina, while England take on the USA.

300 for Knowles

In the men’s event, Australia and Germany eased into the semifinals today. While the world champions beat Egypt 4-0, Germany beat France 4-1. Germany will next face Spain, who beat Ireland 2-1; Australia will take on Belgium, who beat New Zealand 2-0. 

Australian captain Mark Knowles played in his 300th international game. Knowles assisted two of the goals, both times setting up Jake Whetton — first with a parallel pass to the top of the circle, second with a long scoop into the rival circle.

“It’s important that we acknowledge Mark Knowles who has reached a milestone and whose career continues to flourish,” said Australia coach Colin Batch.

“I think we did what was required tonight. We need to reach our best level for the next match.” — Agencies