KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian hockey hit a new low on Wednesday as the Speedy Tigers suffered a crushing 8-1 defeat to defending champions India in the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) in Inner Mongolia, China.
It marked Malaysia's worst-ever loss to India in 36 encounters, stretching back to the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
World No. 5 India were relentless, with Raj Kumal Pal netting a hat-trick (3rd, 25th, 33rd minutes), while Araijeet Singh Hundal (6th, 40th), Jugraj Singh (7th), Harmanpreet Singh (22nd) and Uttam Singh (40th) added to Malaysia's woes.
World No. 13 Malaysia managed only a consolation goal, scored by Akhimullah Anuar Esook in the 34th minute.
After three matches, Malaysia have just one point on the board, while India sit comfortably at the top of the standings with a perfect nine points.