Afghanistan and Malaysia kicked off the men’s cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya with commanding performances on the opening day. Reigning silver medalists Afghanistan defeated hosts Japan by 48 runs, while Malaysia comfortably chased down Hong Kong, China’s target, securing an eight-wicket victory with eight overs to spare.
For Afghanistan, the victory was secured by a clinical bowling display that completely dismantled Japan after the hosts showed early promise in their run chase. Meanwhile, Malaysia recovered from a brief early wobble to cruise to a comfortable victory.
Afghanistan turn the game around against Japan
Afghanistan put up a competitive total of 129 under challenging batting conditions, but Japan made a strong start in their pursuit. The hosts reached 53 for three in the eighth over, keeping themselves firmly in the hunt with contributions from Reo Sakurano-Thomas (23) and Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (14). Benjamin Ito-Davis further accelerated the scoring with a quick-fire 17 off just eight balls.
However, Afghanistan responded emphatically. Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote dismissed Ito-Davis and triggered a dramatic collapse, while Arab Gul tore through the lower order with sensational figures of 4 for 8. Japan lost their final eight wickets for a mere 28 runs, bowled out for 81. Kharote finished with impressive figures of 3 for 19, sealing a comprehensive 48-run victory for Afghanistan.
Mohammad Nabi’s son makes Afghanistan debut
The match also marked a historic moment for Afghan cricket, as Hassan Eisakhil, the son of legendary all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, made his international debut. His maiden appearance was brief, as he was dismissed leg-before-wicket for three by Reo Sakurano-Thomas.
Afghanistan’s innings was anchored by Mohammad Akram’s brisk 34 off 29 balls, alongside contributions from Karim Janat (21) and captain Darwish Rasooli (29). Mohammad Ishaq provided the crucial late impetus with an unbeaten 25 from 17 deliveries, lifting Afghanistan to a respectable 129.
In Japan’s bowling department, Shoma Sugaya-Slater and Ibrahim Takahashi claimed two wickets each, with Takahashi proving highly economical, conceding just 19 runs from his four overs.
Malaysia’s bowlers put Hong Kong under pressure
Malaysia matched Afghanistan’s intensity, restricting Hong Kong, China to a modest 81 for nine in their 20 overs. The visitors found themselves in deep trouble during the Powerplay, slumping to 31 for five. Spinner Pavandeep Singh was the chief destroyer, claiming three wickets in his second over.
Although Babar Hayat resisted with a patient 29 from 39 balls, Malaysia’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Muhammad Amir further compounded Hong Kong’s misery by picking up three wickets, preventing any meaningful partnership from developing.
Virandeep, Syahadat finish the chase
In the chase, Malaysia faced a brief moment of pressure, losing two wickets inside the second over. However, the setback proved minor as Virandeep Singh and Muhamad Syahadat steadied the ship. The duo took complete control of the proceedings, with Virandeep finishing unbeaten on 32 and Syahadat notching 36 not out.
The partnership guided Malaysia to 82 for two in just 12 overs, sealing a convincing eight-wicket victory with a whopping 48 balls remaining. The win puts Malaysia in a strong position ahead of their crucial group match against Oman on Saturday, September 26.
The opening day of the Asian Games cricket competition has set a highly competitive tone, highlighting the teams that are serious contenders for the knockout stages.
