The Indians, who rallied superbly to hold the Egyptian national team 3-3 in their first match at the same City Park Stadium in the Kenyan capital, shot into lead as early as the second minute through Senthil, who made a superb solo run on the right flank and banged the ball home.

The hosts restored parity 18 minutes later via a penalty corner converson by William Okech, according to information received by the Indian Hockey Federation here today.

Rawat struck the winner in the 52nd minute to settle the issue in favour of the Indian team, which is a mixture of both senior and junior players.

The Indians could have won a bigger margin but for the chances missed by their forwards.

Coach Balwinder Singh said: ``The boys played good hockey but missed three open chances. SS Gill and Cheops D'Costa played well in thedefence while Harsat Qureshi displayed good stickwork in the forward line.''

The Indians will take on Kenya B in their third match of the four-team tournament tomorrow.