India hockey, Sultan Azlan Shah, India vs Malaysia
Reuters

India will have their eyes on the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final, when they face hosts Malaysia on Friday. Australia seems to have virtually booked their finals berth though they have to play against Japan on Friday.

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The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has got down to the final matchday of the group stages, where India, New Zealand and Great Britain have a chance to face Australia in the final. Great Britain also face New Zealand the same day, which makes matters really interesting for the finals berth. 

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If India beat Malaysia and Great Britain-New Zealand match ends in a draw, India, with 10 points, go through, but if India loses, it is all over for the Roealnt Oltamns' men. In case of India loss, either of Great Britain or New Zealand will grab the final spot. If India win and Great Britain also emerge victorious, it could all boil down to the goal-difference.

What goes in India's favour is that they will face Malaysia in the last game on Friday, meaning they would know exactly what is required to reach the final.

India have not been consistent in the Sultan Azlan Shah, where they beat New Zealand and Japan, but lost to Australia and drew against Great Britain. Even in their last game against Japan, it was Mandeep Singh's hat-trick, which saw them through in the closing stages of the match.

India have to play quality hockey, offensively and defensively against Malaysia. India are always a threat while going forward, but their defence can sometimes take their foot off the peddle and have a dull day.

Though hosts Malaysia have been poor, not winning a single game, they will be determined to give a solid performance against India, who cannot afford to take it easy. Malaysia, with their home support, could spoil India's chances of reaching the final too.

India vs Malaysia schedule

  • Date: May 5
  • Venue: Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
  • Time: 8:35 local time (6:05 pm IST)
  • TV listings: India: Star Sports 2/HD