Japan's Cricket Team Proud Despite Narrow Loss to India in T20I

In a thrilling T20I match, Japan's cricket team narrowly lost to India by just two runs, showcasing their determination and skill. Captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming expressed pride in the team's performance, pushing the reigning champions to the last ball. The match, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, saw Japan's bowlers impressively restrict India to 32 runs. As they prepare for their next challenge against Afghanistan in the Asian Games 2026, the Japanese team remains optimistic about their future in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 22, 2026, 19:07 IST

Japan's Close Encounter with India

Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, the captain of Japan's cricket team, expressed immense pride after their thrilling five-over T20I match against India, which ended in a narrow two-run defeat in Sano on Tuesday. The match, which was shortened due to rain, saw India, the reigning world champions, restricted to 32 runs for 4 wickets. Axar Patel played a crucial role, defending eight runs in the final over to secure the win for India. This match was particularly significant as it celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and India.

Kadowaki-Fleming highlighted the team's pride in pushing India to the last ball, despite the loss. He commended the cricket community for their support in making the match happen and emphasized the belief that 'anything is possible.' He acknowledged the challenges posed by Indian bowlers Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi, and mentioned that Japan would now focus on resting and preparing for their upcoming game after a quick 36-hour turnaround.

Reflections on the Match

Kadowaki-Fleming shared his thoughts on the match, stating, "When it gets that tough, it gets a little tough to take. The fact that we were able to run the best team in the world to the last ball... Proud of the cricket group and broader community. The people working on this ground through the whole night made this game happen. Anything is possible was the attitude. Axar, Bishnoi bowling on our wicket, we knew it was going to be a challenge, but at 6.5 RPO, you know your mind wanders... A couple of moments will wander in our mind on a long bus ride. It's a feeling of pride."

He also noted the team's progress and readiness for their next match, saying, "We've got a 36-hour turnaround now; we'll rest up and prepare for another Full Mumber."

Match Highlights

In terms of match performance, Japan's bowlers showcased their skills on a sluggish Sano pitch, limiting India to just 32 runs in 5 overs. Shreyas Iyer was the top scorer for India with 16 runs, while Japan's Charlie Hara-Hinze took 2 wickets for 17 runs, and Ibrahim Takahashi claimed one wicket. Notably, Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a golden duck, and both Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan fell cheaply.

In their chase of 33 runs, Japan faced early trouble, slipping to 7 runs for 2 wickets. However, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and Benjamin Ito-Davis steadied the innings. Washington Sundar dismissed Kadowaki-Fleming for 12 runs in the fourth over, leaving Japan needing eight runs from the last six balls. Axar Patel maintained his composure, restricting Japan to 30 runs for 3 wickets, thus ensuring a narrow two-run victory for India. Washington Sundar emerged as India's standout bowler with two wickets.