Abhishek Nain has become one of India’s most dependable sources of goals in recent years, and the striker once again underlined his value with a brace as the five-time champions beat Japan 4-1 to make it three wins in a row at the Asian Champions Trophy in Jalandhar on Friday.

Playing his 150th international match, Abhishek struck in the 11th and 51st minutes, helping India maintain their unbeaten run after opening the campaign with emphatic wins over Bangladesh (13-0) and China (5-2). Captain Harmanpreet Singh (47th) and Vishnukant Singh (56th) scored the other goals, while Shota Yamada (15th) converted a penalty stroke for Japan.

The victory sets India up for Sunday’s clash against Malaysia, a side they defeated 5-1 at the recent Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Japan will take on China.

India, however, had to work harder for this win than their opening two outings suggested. Japan started with greater intent, enjoying possession and earning a penalty corner in the second minute.…