Hockey set to give New Delhi the test

Hockey's World Cup tournament in New Dehli is likely to be a litmus test for India's security planning ahead of the Commonwealth Games in October.

The tournament starts on February 28 in the face of mounting security concerns around major sporting events.

New Zealand assistant coach Darren Smith has no doubt their off-field experiences will be keenly followed.

Smith says Olympic Committee officials and other sports will be monitoring how they handle things.

Concerns around India's security have been raised again, with an Australian expert alarmed at Delhi's lack of preparation.