Cricket Kitchen

Nepal–Japan Match Ends Without a Result, Nepal Advances to Quarterfinals as Group Winners

September 26, 2026

Kathmandu – The men’s cricket match between Nepal and Japan at the 20th Asian Games ended without a result due to rain. The match was delayed by about an hour before eventually being reduced to 15 overs.

After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, Nepal scored 149 runs for the loss of four wickets. Jora remained unbeaten on 57 off 32 balls, while Lokesh was not out on 52 off 22 balls. Asif Sheikh contributed 21 runs.

For Japan, Rio Sakurano Thomas, Ibrahim Takahashi, Kusuda Narani, and Declan Suzuki took one wicket each.

Rain returned as Nepal’s innings came to an end, and the pitch was covered. The second innings could not begin because of the continuing rain.

With the match ending without a result, Nepal finished top of Group A with 3 points from two matches and advanced to the quarterfinals. Afghanistan finished second with 2 points from two matches.

In the quarterfinals, Nepal will face Sri Lanka, while Afghanistan will play India.