Hockeyroos thump India

The Hockeyroos have continued their impressive start to the World Cup in Argentina with a 6-3 thumping of India on Wednesday.

Australia dominated from the outset but were unable to make the most of the early opportunities until captain Madonna Blyth found the back of the net 17 minutes in.

India gradually worked their way back into the match and found an equaliser, but Ashleigh Nelson restored the Hockeyroos' one-goal lead just before half time after converting a penalty corner.

India equalised in the early stages of the second half and seemingly had all the momentum when Blyth left the field with an injury.

But Casey Eastham stepped up in her captain's absence to score the goal of the day and put Australia back in front.

The Hockeyroos then added another two goals in a devastating 10-minute burst with Shelly Liddelow rounding off the scoring in the 64th minute.

"We are pleased to come away with the points but I am a bit disappointed that we let three goals in and I’m disappointed that we didn’t convert some opportunities early, but I am certainly happy to get the three points," said Hockeyroos coach Frank Murray.

"I think that you saw today that when Madonna got hurt and had to leave the field that Casey stepped up and made a big difference. To loss Munro out of our midfield (retired prior to tournament) and to loss Madonna today it makes it more difficult but as we saw Casey was involved in three of the goal. But hopefully Madonna will be okay for the next game."

The Kookaburras now sit equal top of Group A with two wins from as many matches, but their World Cup credentials will be truly tested on Friday when they take on the undefeated Netherlands.