India, March 15 -- It was their first game against a higher ranked team in the FIH Women's World Cup Qualifier in Hyderabad. Having achieved their main target of qualifying for the World Cup, the focus was on how India would hold up against England in Sunday's final. The 0-2 loss and the struggle to find control showed how much the team needs to improve.

The hosts were outplayed by England, the world No.6, with Grace Balsdon (13th minute) and Elizabeth Neal (43rd) the scorers at the GMC Balayogi Hockey Ground. The World Cup will be played in Netherlands and Belgium from August 14-30, giving India the time to improve their speed, fitness and sharpness in penalty corner routines.

The teams to qualify from Hyderabad are England, world No.9...