India, after going a goal down in the first 2 minutes, came back strongly with intent to seal a 4-1 victory ahead of the final Super4s clash against China (image via X/@TheHockeyIndia)

India overcame an early setback to register a commanding 4-1 win over Malaysia in their second Super 4s match of the Men’s Asia Cup in Rajgir on Thursday. Malaysia stunned the hosts within two minutes of play, but India responded strongly with a flurry of goals. As soon as the game began, India were put on the back foot from a stunning tomahawk strike from Shafiq Hassan.After struggling to make any headway in the first Quarter, Manpreet Singh equalised in the 17th minute before Sukhjeet Singh struck two minutes later to put India ahead. Shilanand Lakra added a third in the 24th minute, giving the home side a 3-1 lead at half-time. The pressure continued after the restart, and Vivek Sagar Prasad converted from a penalty corner in the 38th minute to seal the victory. The result puts India in a strong position ahead of their final Super 4s encounter against China on Saturday. The win followed India’s 2-2 draw against South Korea in their opening Super 4s match. Thursday’s contest also marked a personal milestone for captain Harmanpreet Singh, who completed 250 international appearances. Chief coach Craig Fulton presented him with a special jersey before the game. “This is a very special and emotional moment for me. I have received a lot of love from hockey fans throughout my career so far and I am grateful for all the support,” Harmanpreet said in a release by Hockey India.

Hockey India president Dr. Dilip Tirkey lauded the skipper’s achievement, calling it a “mega achievement,” while secretary general Bhola Nath Singh described Harmanpreet as “India’s pride.”