Tokyo: Afghanistan began their men’s cricket campaign at the Asian Games 2026 on a winning note, defeating hosts Japan by 48 runs in their Group A opener.
After posting 129 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, Afghanistan’s bowlers produced a superb second-half performance to dismiss Japan for 81 in 19.3 overs.
The standout performer was right-arm wristspinner Arab Gul, who made an immediate impact on his T20I debut by claiming four wickets for just eight runs. Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote also played a key role with three for 19, while Abdollah Ahmadzai chipped in with two wickets.
Japan appeared well placed during the early stages of their chase. The hosts moved to 53 for 2 in the eighth over after making a controlled start, but Afghanistan’s spinners gradually tightened the pressure.
Gul proved decisive in the middle overs, striking twice in the 12th over and adding two more wickets in the 14th. Japan slipped dramatically from 60 for 4 to 63 for 8, losing four wickets for only three runs.
Kharote and Ahmadzai then wrapped up the innings as Japan were bowled out for 81.
Earlier, Afghanistan had struggled to accelerate after being asked to bat first. Mohammad Akram top-scored with 34, while captain Darwish Rasooli contributed 29 and Karim Janat made 21.
Japan’s bowlers kept Afghanistan below six runs an over for much of the first 15 overs. Right-arm seamer Shoma Sugaya-Slater and offspinner Ibrahim Takahashi took two wickets each.
Mohammad Ishaq, however, provided Afghanistan with an important late surge. Batting at No. 6, Ishaq remained unbeaten on 25 from 17 deliveries to help his side reach 129 for 6.
Japan’s defeat comes just two days after the hosts had pushed India close in a rain-affected match in Sano.
Both Afghanistan and Japan will now turn their attention to their remaining Group A fixture against Nepal. The top two sides in the group will advance to the quarter-finals of the men’s cricket competition.
Afghanistan 129/6 (Akram 34, Rasooli 29, Janat 21, Ishaq 25) beat Japan 81 (Sakurano-Thomas 23; Gul 4/8, Kharote 3/19, Ahmadzai 2/13) by 48 runs*
