Nepal Advances to Quarter-finals as Japan Exits Asian Games Cricket

In a rain-affected match at the Asian Games, Japan was eliminated from the men's cricket competition after their first-round game against Nepal was abandoned without a ball being bowled. Nepal's strong batting performance, led by Sundeep Jora and Lokesh Bam, secured their advancement to the quarter-finals. Despite Japan's promising moments in the tournament, they could not chase down the target set by Nepal. The quarter-final lineup now includes notable teams like India and Pakistan, with matches scheduled for later this month.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 26, 2026, 12:02 IST

Japan's Elimination from the Asian Games

Japan's journey in the men's cricket event at the Asian Games came to an abrupt end when their first-round match against Nepal was abandoned due to rain, with no play occurring in the chase on Saturday. Nepal had set a target of 149 runs for four wickets in their 15 overs, thanks to impressive half-centuries from Sundeep Jora and Lokesh Bam. However, continuous rain thwarted Japan's attempt to start their innings, as reported by Cricinfo.

Nepal Secures Quarter-final Spot

This outcome allowed Nepal to top Group A and secure a place in the quarter-finals, alongside Afghanistan. Japan's campaign concluded despite some promising performances in earlier matches.

Nepal's Batting Highlights

Nepal's innings faced multiple interruptions due to rain, impacting their rhythm. Despite these challenges, they managed to recover from a tough middle phase to set a competitive score. Early dismissals of Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, and Gulsan Jha for low scores were offset by Aasif Sheikh's quick 21 runs off 15 balls. Jora, who entered the game in the third over, formed a crucial 55-run partnership with Sheikh.

Late Surge by Jora and Bam

As the innings progressed, Nepal reached 84 for four at the halfway mark. In the final five overs, Jora and Bam accelerated the scoring, with Bam scoring an explosive 52 runs off just 22 balls, including one four and six sixes. Jora contributed an unbeaten 57 runs from 32 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes. Their combined efforts added 65 runs in the last five overs, setting Japan a challenging target.

Japan's Performance Overview

Throughout the tournament, Japan showcased moments of brilliance, particularly in their opening match against Afghanistan. They also put up a good fight against India in a T20I prior to the Asian Games, but their batting remained inconsistent.

Quarter-final Matchups Announced

With Japan's exit, the quarter-final lineup now features India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Afghanistan. India is set to face Afghanistan on September 28, while Nepal will compete against Sri Lanka on September 29. Pakistan and Bangladesh had already secured their quarter-final spots before the tournament commenced.