New Zealand, who lost yesterday's first test 2-3, put on an improved performance in yesterday's second women's hockey test, forcing India to fight back for a 2-2 draw at Palmerston North.
Unlike Saturday, both teams came out to play at a high pace and the Black Sticks made better use of
early opportunities.
They took the lead when Piki Hamahona expertly flicked home from a penalty corner in the 14th minute.
India levelled the scores in the closing stages of the first half when Rani Rampal, who scored a hat-trick for India in the first test, beat New Zealand goalkeeper Beth Jurgeleit.
India had the better run of play for the majority of the second half but were unable to convert any of the numerous penalty corners they were awarded.
New Zealand sneaked in front against the run of play in the 67th minute when Anita Punt set up Charlotte Harrison for a goal.
India replied almost immediately with a sharp attack that saw Subhadra Pradhan put the finishing touch to a penalty corner variation.
The Black Sticks had an opportunity to win the match with a penalty corner after the final hooter but the shot was off target.
Indian captain Surinder Kaur led the visitors well across the pitch, while Kate Mahon and Jurgeleit were solid in the New Zealand defensive efforts.
New Zealand coach Mark Hager said there was a small improvement from the first test.
But basic skills such as trapping let his side down and the standard of play in the attacking circle needed to improve over the next three games.NZPA
