AMSTELVEEN (THE NETHERLANDS), AUG 16 (PTI): The Indian women’s hockey team began their Hockey World Cup campaign with a spirited 2-2 draw against Paris Olympics silver medallists China in Amstelveen, Netherlands, on Sunday. In what was billed as their toughest Pool D clash, India showcased aggression and resilience, dominating the opening quarter and holding a 2-1 lead at halftime before China fought back to level the contest.
India’s breakthrough came in the eighth minute when Navneet Kaur, continuing her fine form from the World Cup Qualifiers, scored a well-timed field goal off Neha’s pass. Despite missing drag-flicker Deepika during an early penalty corner, India’s forwards kept pressing, with Lalremsiami and Baljit creating opportunities from the wings. However, China equalised in the 14th minute after Zhang Ying converted a penalty stroke awarded against Shilpi Dabas. India’s referral was rejected, leaving the score at 1-1.
The second quarter saw India regain control. Shilpi denied Peng Yang’s reverse hit before India earned another penalty corner in the 22nd minute. Though Navneet’s attempts were blocked, Deepika restored India’s lead in the 24th minute with a precise drag-flick, despite China’s unsuccessful video referral. India entered halftime ahead 2-1.
China regrouped in the third quarter, launching sustained attacks that tested India’s defence. Veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia, playing her 314th international match, produced crucial saves against Peng Yang and Zhang Ying. Yet, Ma Ning equalised in the 39th minute from a penalty corner, bringing the score to 2-2. India shifted to defensive play, absorbing pressure but struggling to regain their attacking rhythm.
The final quarter was tense, with both sides pushing for a winner. Navneet’s cross to Lalremsiami in the 52nd minute was intercepted, while China’s Zhou Meirong received a green card, briefly reducing her team to ten players. India failed to capitalise, and despite China earning two penalty corners in the 56th minute, Savita’s experience kept them at bay. In the dying moments, Navneet attempted another circle penetration, but India were denied a penalty corner, prompting coach Sjoerd Marijne’s frustration over officiating decisions.
Navneet and Deepika were India’s scorers, while Zhang Ying and Ma Ning struck for China. The result reflected India’s ability to challenge a formidable opponent, though missed opportunities and officiating controversies left them ruing what might have been. India will next face South Africa on August 18, a crucial fixture after England defeated South Africa 4-0 earlier in the day.
This performance highlighted India’s attacking flair in the first half, defensive resilience led by Savita, and the growing influence of forwards like Navneet and Lalremsiami. However, lapses in the third quarter and failure to convert late chances underscored areas needing improvement. The draw, nonetheless, sets a positive tone for India’s campaign, proving their capability to hold their own against top-ranked teams.
