Asia Cup: Indian eves ready for South Korean test

Muscat, January 25

Their campaign back on track after a below-par outing against Japan in the pool stage, defending champions India would look for an error-free outing against South Korea in the semifinals of the women’s Asia Cup.

Top-seeded India started on a resounding note, blanking Malaysia 9-0 before being stunned by reigning Asian Games champions Japan 2-0 in their next match.

India, however, raised their game to thrash a lowly Singapore 9-1 and qualify for the last-four stage behind Pool A toppers Japan.

Come Wednesday, and the Savita Punia-led women’s team, ranked ninth in the world, would seek strong show against the South Koreans, placed 11th in the FIH rankings. But it would be easier said than done. A poor outing against them could raise doubts about the Indians ahead of a busy calendar year comprising big events like the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, FIH World Cup, besides the FIH Pro League.

The last time India faced them at the international stage was in May 2019, when India lost 1-2. —