Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh said that facing a strong team like Australia on their home turf will help the visitors identify the key areas of improvement ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

"Playing Australia in their home conditions is always a great challenge, and that`s exactly what we need at this stage of our preparations," Harmanpreet said before the team`s departure.

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.