'Key part of our build-up to the Asia Cup': Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh on Australia tour

The Asia Cup will also serve as a World Cup qualifier. The Indian team departed for Australia, where they will lock horns with them for a four-match series at The Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21.

"We're treating this series as a key part of our build-up to the Asia Cup. The focus is on improving as a unit, testing ourselves against strong opposition, and building the momentum we need heading into Rajgir," he added.

"These matches will help us pinpoint the areas that need sharpening before the Asia Cup, and we're excited about the opportunity to play high-intensity hockey against a top side like Australia," said the 29-year-old skipper.

The Australia tour is also expected to provide exposure to the youngsters on the Indian side. The tour will also help the management to find the right combinations and analyse the players' form before the start of the continental tournament.

The four matches against Australia are scheduled to be played on August 15, 16, 19 and 21.

The squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent and will be closely monitored as the final group for the Asia Cup is finalised.

The Asia Cup will begin on August 29 in Rajgir, with the winner of the tournament earning a direct berth in the World Cup.

Earlier, the second most capped Indian hockey player, Manpreet Singh, said that the current Indian team is at par with Australia. , the Netherlands and Germany on fitness, intensity and skills, and the only difference is in execution.

"Even before the Tokyo Olympics, the team had the confidence to defeat big teams. In terms of fitness and skill, we are at par with them. The only difference is in the execution, and we are focusing on that," said Manpreet.

(With PTI Inputs)