Afghanistan opened their Asian Games men's cricket campaign with a 48-run victory over Japan at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin. Batting first, Afghanistan made 129 for six from 20 overs before bowling Japan out for 81 in 19.3 overs.
Mohammad Akram top-scored with 34, while Darwish Rasooli made 29 and Mohammad Ishaq added useful late runs as Afghanistan lifted the total after a controlled middle phase. Japan had kept the scoring rate in check for much of the innings before Afghanistan accelerated in the final overs.
Arab Gul led the bowling with four wickets for eight runs from four overs, while Nangeyalia Kharote took three wickets. Reo Sakurano-Thomas top-scored for Japan with 23. Afghanistan are in Group A and are scheduled to face Nepal on September 25.