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India vs Japan T20I Highlights: Just before stepping onto the grand stage of the Asian Games, the Indian cricket team played a historic and thrilling match against Japan. Played at the Sano International Cricket Ground, this T20 match kept everyone on the edge of their seats with every delivery. In this rain-interrupted 5-over contest, the Indian team held its nerve until the very end, defeating Japan by a narrow margin of just 2 runs.
Let’s take a look at the highlights and thrilling twists of this match:
India vs Japan T20I Highlights: Targets 33 Runs in 5 Overs After Winning Toss
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As soon as the match began, the Indian captain won the toss and elected to bat first. In this 5-over format, hitting big shots on every delivery was a necessity.
India scored 32 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in the allotted 5 overs, setting a target of 33 runs for Japan to win.India Batting Highlights
- Abhishek Sharma: Dismissed on the very first ball, falling victim to a golden duck.
- Sanju Samson: Out for 9 runs while attempting to stabilize the innings.
- Ishan Kishan: Could only add 3 runs while trying to play aggressive shots.
- Shreyas Iyer: The team's top scorer, contributing a crucial 16 runs.
For Japan, Charlie Hinze bowled brilliantly to claim 2 wickets, while Ibrahim Takahashi and Benjamin Ito-Davis took one wicket each.
Japan's Run Chase: Washington Sundar Shines
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Chasing a modest target of 33 runs, the Japanese team tried to put pressure on the Indian bowlers right from the start. Japanese captain Kendall Kadowaki-Fleming led the charge, playing a quick-fire knock of 12 runs that kept the match thrilling right up to the final overs.
However, Indian spinner Washington Sundar stifled the Japanese batting lineup with precise line and length. Sundar claimed 2 crucial wickets during his short spell, effectively turning the tide of the match in India's favor.
Last-Over Drama: India Claims a Narrow 2-Run Win Over Japan
The Japanese team fought hard until the very last ball, but against the disciplined bowling of the Indians, they could only manage 30 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 5 overs. India won this nail-biting match by 2 runs.
Match Highlights & Key Takeaways
- Date & Venue: September 22, Sano International Cricket Ground (Sano)
- Match Format: Reduced to 5 overs per side due to rain
- India Score: 32/4 (5 Overs)
- Japan Score: 30/3 (5 Overs)
- Key Performers: Shreyas Iyer (16 runs) and Washington Sundar (2 wickets)
This tough contest, held ahead of a major tournament like the Asian Games, proved to be excellent preparation for both teams.
Also Read: Asian Games 2026 Live Updates Day 4: India Medal Tally, Match Results & Schedule
