
New Delhi, June 17: Young forward Gagan Ajit Singh slammed a hat-trick as the Indian hockey team opened its Belgium tour with a 5-3 victory over the hosts at Auderghem on Tuesday, according information received here.
Forward Sameer Dad struck a brace to complement Gagan Ajit, who shone in India8217;s victory in the final Test over Germany a few days back.
Coudron, with a stroke conversion, made it 1-2 before Kholopov and Joeri Beunen scored in the second half to provide the consolation goals for Belgium, who are preparing for the European Championships.
The Asian Games champions, who lost 1-3 to Germany in their four-Test series before embarking on the Belgian tour, were 2-0 ahead by the 25th minute through twin strikes by Dad.
Belgium reduced the margin through the 30th minute stroke conversion before Gagan Ajit struck in quick succession to enable India take a 4-1 lead.
Kholopov made it 2-4 for Belgium in the 57th minute before Gagan Ajit completed his hat-trick.
The hosts, who will play three more friendly matches with India, reduced the margin further just three minutes before the final whistle with Joeri Beunen slamming home from a penalty corner.