Bengaluru, Aug. 8 -- The Indian men's hockey team departed for Australia in the early hours of Friday from Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, as they gear up for a crucial four-match series against the hosts.

The series, set to take place at the Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21, will serve as vital preparation for the upcoming Hero Asia Cup 2025, scheduled in Rajgir, Bihar, later this month.

The tour is expected to provide the team with valuable match exposure against one of the world's top-ranked sides, allowing the coaching staff to fine-tune combinations and assess player form ahead of the continental tournament.

The two sides recently faced each other in the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in Europe, where Australia edged...