New Delhi, April 23 -- The Indian stock market benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, are expected to open lower on Thursday, as sentiment remains weak amid rising crude oil prices due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Asian markets traded higher, with Nikkei and Kospi hitting record highs, while US stock market also rallied overnight, sending S&P and Nasdaq at record closing.

On Wednesday, the Indian stock market suffered strong losses, snapping their three-session winning streak.

The Sensex crashed 756.84 points, or 0.95%, to close at 78,516.49, while the Nifty 50 settled 198.50 points, or 0.81%, lower at 24,378.10.

"Indian markets are expected to consolidate in the near term as investors continue to monitor developments in ...