Afghanistan opened their Asian Games men’s cricket campaign with a 48-run victory over hosts Japan in Nisshin. Afghanistan batted first and made 129 for six before dismissing Japan for 81 in 19.3 overs.
The result gives Afghanistan a winning start in Group A, which also includes Nepal. The match was Afghanistan’s first appearance in the men’s cricket competition at the 2026 Games.
Afghanistan’s next group fixture is scheduled against Nepal on September 25. The group stage determines progression to the later rounds, making the opening victory useful in both points and momentum. Japan, playing at home, was unable to build a chase after Afghanistan’s bowlers kept the required rate under pressure and completed the dismissal of the side before the end of the 20 overs.