Aussies make successful start to World Cup title defense

HAGUE: Title defenders Australia have started their hockey World Cup campaign in the Netherlands with a 4-0 win over Malaysia in the opening match on Saturday.

Playing in The Hague, Glenn Turner put the Kookaburras ahead in the 25th minute before three goals in a four-minute spell in the second.

Eddie Ockenden doubled the lead on 50 minutes and Jamie Dwyer put his name on the score sheet a couple of minutes later.

Turner added his second goal when converting a penalty corner to extend the lead to 4-0.

Later on Saturday, Belgium will take on India with England playing Spain in the men's competition.

Aussies get to 178/8 against W-Indies

MIRPUR: Australia reached 178/8 in their 20 overs at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur.

Once again it was Maxwell leading the charge for Australia, hitting 5x4s and 3x6s in a 22 ball 45.

After his dismissal Hodge made sure Australia got to a good total with 35 off 26 balls with 2x4s and a six.

Haddin then finished it well with 15 off just 7 balls with a four and a six.

S.Narine was the pick of the W-Indian bowlers with 2-19 off his quota.

S.Badree and M.Samuels also got a couple of wickets each.

WI need 179 to win the game and earn some vital points.