India, Aug. 19 -- India's record-breaking 6-1 demolition of South Africa has done considerably more than deliver their first victory of the Women's Hockey World Cup. It has taken Sjoerd Marijne's side to the top of Pool D and placed qualification for the second round firmly in their own hands ahead of Thursday's final group match against England.

India now have four points from two games and a goal difference of +5, having followed their opening 2-2 draw against China with their biggest victory in Women's World Cup history. China are also on four points but sit second with a +2 goal difference after beating England 4-2, while England have three points. South Africa remain without a point. The equation for India is therefore straightforwa...