Oswestry's Caro Hulme has vowed to never forget the experience of the 2018 Commonwealth Games after she made her debut for Wales in Australia.

The 18-year-old won her first senior international hockey cap in the early hours of Thursday morning when the home nation shocked the hockey world with a stunning 3-2 victory over highly-fancied India.

Just 12 hours after attending a spectacular opening ceremony when almost 40,000 spectators and athletes packed into the Carrara Stadium, the young midfielder was lining up against the Asian cup winners India who are ranked 10th in the world.

After sweeping into a 2-0 lead, Wales had to withstand heavy pressure as India drew level in the second period, but a brilliant individual goal from Natasha Marke-Jones, just three minutes from time, sealed a famous victory for the dragons.

Caro, who was used as a rolling substitute and enjoyed a good amount of pitch time, was ecstatic when speaking to parents and twin sister Lottie back home in Bronygarth after the game. She described the victory as a wonderful team effort, in which Olympic Team GB goalkeeper, Rose Thomas, made a series of fine saves.

It has been a dramatic few days for the former Ellesmere College hockey captain, having only been called into the Wales squad as a travelling reserve three weeks previously.

Her dad, John, said: "Caro was planning her flight home after the opening ceremony to team up with her Beeston colleagues as they prepare for the National League play offs at the end of the money.

"But she was told by management that she would be staying on and replacing fellow midfielder Danielle Jordan who had the misfortune to break a thumb in a pre-game warm up match. Caro received the dramatic news, just 24 hours before the final tournament squad was to be announced."

Caro said: "I am so fortunate to be out here. I really feel for Danni. She has been very kind to me and is a real role model."

Despite the Welsh squad's games ending early after a defeat to England South Africa, Caro is still in high spirits about her time at the Commonwealth Games.

"It is an experience I shall never forget. I couldn't believe it was happening. The facilities are amazing and everyone has been so supportive and helpful."

Caro, who moved into the Athletes Village after her final selection, admitted to being slightly star-struck at seeing some of the world's top athletes walking about, including diver Tom Daley and tennis table protege Anna Hursey.

She has also bumped into a member of the men's England and GB squad, from her own club, Beeston.