On Saturday, September 26, rain wiped out Japan’s reply against Nepal at Kōrogi Sports Park in Nisshin, eliminating them from the Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket competition. It was Group A’s fifth match, and Japan’s withdrawal from the competition was finalised without them having to deal with a single retort.
After posting 149 for 4 in an innings impacted by the rain, Nepal was declared the winner of Group A. Afghanistan earned the second qualifying spot from Group A and will go to the quarterfinals with Nepal after defeating Japan by 48 runs in the group’s opening match on September 24.
Prior to the game, Japan’s position had previously been unstable. They needed to win against Nepal in order to continue in the competition after suffering a crushing loss to Afghanistan. Rain completely eliminated that option, ending their Nisshin campaign too soon.
Rain interfered with Nepal’s innings both before and during the fifth over, but they managed to achieve a competitive score. With Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, and Gulsan Jha all leaving for single-digit scores, their top order presented minimal opposition. Aasif Sheikh gave early momentum by contributing 21 off 15 balls, momentarily stabilising the situation.
Sundeep Jora and Sheikh’s 55-run second-wicket partnership gave the innings its form. Jora finished undefeated on 57 off 32 balls with three sixes and five fours while staying in the crease the entire time. By the end of the tenth over, Nepal had reached 84 for 4; five overs remained, and their most potent batsman had not yet completely let go.
In the final parts of the innings, Lokesh Bam destroyed it by hitting an undefeated 52 off just 22 balls. His attack, which included one four and six sixes during his cameo, propelled Nepal from a lowly starting position to a final score of 149 for 4. Rain resumed before Japan could face a ball, despite the increased goal of 149 in 15 overs.
What impact will Japan’s departure have on the Group A rankings?
The weather verified Nepal’s victory, and they now hold the top spot in Group A. Afghanistan was already in a great position after defeating Japan earlier, and the outcome in Nisshin guarantyd their advancement to the quarterfinals as the second qualifier in the group.
At the group stage, Japan’s campaign is over. They had faced India in a one-off Twenty20 International before the Asian Games and had shown some promise against Afghanistan in their first group match, but both performances eventually failed to get them past a group that included two well-established Asian teams.
Also Read: Gambhir’s Crucial Advice to Hardik Ahead of 2027 World Cup
Afghanistan and Nepal have both advanced, completing Group A’s quarterfinal lineup. It will be necessary for Japan to reorganise and anticipate future chances in important Asian cricket tournaments.
