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Indian hockey had something to cheer about. Poonam Rani struck twice as India scored an upset victory over higher-ranked China 4-2 in their opening match of the third Asian Women Champions Trophy hockey tournament at Kakamigahara, Japan on Saturday.
Rani gave India the lead in the eighth minute by converting a penalty corner. Five minutes later, Amandeep Kaur scored a field goal on her debut international match.
In the 59th minute, Rani scored her second -- a field goal -- off a pass from Namita Toppo.
The fourth goal for India came in the 61st minute when Vandana deflected the ball into the net.
India play their next match against Malaysia on November 4.
Indian men lose 0-2 against China
A young Indian side went down 0-2 against China in their opening match of the third Asian Men Champions Trophy hockey tournament.
The Indian team, made up mainly of junior players, let in two second half goals -- in the 50th and 55th minutes – to begin their campaign on a losing note at Gifu-ken Green Stadium.
The Manpreet Singh-led India play hosts Japan on Sunday.
India had picked 13 juniors in their squad of 18 in view of the Junior World Cup to be held here next month.
Image: Members of the Indian women's hockey team
Photograph: Hockey India