Published on: Sep 23, 2026 5:30 am IST | Updated on: Sep 23, 2026 10:25 am IST
The men’s cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games is all set to kick off with the hosts, Japan, taking on Afghanistan at Nisshin in the first game of the competition. The women’s cricket competition is already done and dusted, making the men’s competition the only real interest. These are the group games, as four of the eight teams have already reached the quarters because of their ICC rankings. The winner of this game will take an early lead in Group A, which features Nepal as the third team. In this post, we have come up with free expert tips for the 1st match of the 2026 Asian Games, JPN vs AFG at the Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin.
Japan and Afghanistan have never squared off against each other in an international game. This will be the first meeting between the two sides, and both will be looking to get past each other in this contest. Afghanistan will start as the outright favorite given their experience and exposure against big teams in the international arena. Therefore, the win probability meter should lean in favor of Afghanistan. Let’s continue with the post and find out the best cricket tips for the 1st match of the 2026 Asian Games, JPN vs AFG at the Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin.
AFG: 100% win chance JPN: 0% win chance
The acting skipper will be crucial bet with the bat for Afghanistan. The right-hander has scored 256 runs in his last 10 T20I outings at a good strike-rate of 139.13.
Afghanistan's premier all-rounder in the Asian Games, Karim will be a top bet with both bat and ball. He will be crucial in both the facets of the game.
The Japan skipper has been their top run getter in the format. Kendel remains Japan's best hope in the batting unit.
The left-hand opening batter of Japan will be one to watch out for. He will be responsible for providing quick start to the side.
Check out our prediction for the JPN vs AFG Match 1 at Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin
The men’s cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games begins with a historic clash between hosts Japan and Afghanistan at Nisshin. It marks the first‑ever meeting between the two nations in international cricket, setting the stage for an intriguing contest between emerging ambition and established pedigree.
Afghanistan enters the fixture as outright favorites, backed by their vast experience and exposure against top‑tier teams across formats. Their players have consistently featured in global tournaments and franchise leagues, giving them a tactical edge and composure under pressure. The likes of Karim Janat, Darwish Rasooli, and Najibullah Zadran bring match‑winning ability and balance across departments, making Afghanistan a formidable unit.
With the gulf in experience aligned with Afghanistan’s proven firepower and adaptability, they are expected to dominate proceedings and begin their Asian Games campaign on a high note.
Japan face a stern test as they take on Afghanistan in their opening clash of the 2026 Asian Games. The hosts will need to be at their absolute best to counter Afghanistan’s formidable spin attack, which has troubled even top international sides. The likes of Arab Gul and Nangyal Kharoti are expected to exploit any weakness in Japan’s batting lineup, making technique and temperament crucial for survival.
For Japan, skipper Kendel Kadowaki‑Fleming will lead from the front, while Lachlan Yamamoto‑Lake and Reo Sakurano‑Thomas hold the key to providing stability at the top. Youngster Charlie Hara‑Hinze adds flair and aggression, and Ibrahim Takahashi’s adaptability could prove vital in rotating strike and building partnerships.
Japan’s batters must focus on playing straight, using their feet against spin, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities during the powerplay. Any lapse in concentration could allow Afghanistan’s spinners to dictate terms. To unsettle the favorites, Japan must combine courage, precision, and collective belief. Let’s move ahead and check the cricket tips.
Matches Played: 0 AFG won: 0 JPN won: 0 No Result: 0 Tied: 0 RECENT form AFGHANISTAN: W W L L L RECENT form JAPAN: L W W L AB
Team Japan and Afghanistan have never ever locked horns in an international game. This will be their first meeting between the two sides.
How will the two teams, i.e., Afghanistan vs Japan, fare in match 1 of the Asian Games 2026? Let’s take a look.
Mohammad Ishaq (WK), Hassan Eisakhil, Darwish Rasooli (C), Najibullah Zadran, Imran Mir, Faisal Khan Shinozada, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Khalid Taniwal, Arab Gul Momand, Faridoon Dawoodzai
Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake, Reo Sakurano-Thomas, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (C), Benjamin Ito-Davis, Wataru Miyauchi, Alexander Shirai-Patmore (wk), Charlie Hara-Hinze, Ibrahim Takahashi, Declan Suzuki-McComb, Makoto Taniyama, Shoma Sugaya-Slater
Here’s the pitch and weather report for the 1st match between Japan and Afghanistan of the Asian Games 2026 at the Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin.
With clear skies and a balanced Korogi Sports Park pitch, captains winning the toss may prefer batting first to set a strong total. Early seam movement could test openers, but batting eases once settled. Afghanistan, with their depth, would back themselves to post 160+, while Japan might lean towards chasing under home conditions.
Where to Watch Today’s Match
The online live streaming of the 1st match between Japan and Afghanistan will take place live on the Sony LIV App. TV streaming for this match will be available on Sony Sports Channels.
Even with a second-fiddle squad, Afghanistan looks a far more balanced side compared to Japan, who have had a lack of exposure against Test-playing nations. Afghanistan may be playing at this venue for the very first time but will start as the firm favorites. Therefore, as per our prediction, the visitors, Afghanistan are expected to win the JPN vs AFG 1st match of the Asian Games 2026 at the Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin.
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