Struggling India look to defend ACT title on home soil

Having struggled to win matches the entire year, the Indian women's hockey team will look to start afresh in a new Olympic cycle by defending its Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) title at home, beginning with a clash against lower-ranked Malaysia here on Monday.

India have won the title twice in 2016 (Singapore) and 2023 (Ranchi) in the seven editions of the tournament so far and look for a third title.

After failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, the Indian team lost 13 matches and won just two (with one draw) out of 16 in the women's FIH Pro League this year, but will hope to make a turnaround in their fortune with a strong performance in the ACT.