Japan Fall Just Short as India Survive Thrilling Finish 

News Desk

Oval: India survived a late scare from Japan to secure a thrilling two-run victory in their first-ever senior men’s international meeting at the Asian Games.

On a slow and low Kensington Oval pitch, Japan pushed India to the limit after a long rain delay, with their spinners and disciplined bowling making an upset appear possible.

India eventually prevailed after a tense final over from Axar Patel. Japan needed eight runs from the last six deliveries but could manage only six, finishing their chase two runs short.

Axar kept his composure under pressure, conceding just six runs in the final over. The over also produced controversy when a second consecutive wide call was initially given against India before the decision was overturned by the umpires following a discussion.

Earlier, Japan’s batters mounted a spirited late charge. Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming struck a crucial four and added valuable runs with Benjamin Ito-Davis to keep Japan within reach of the target.

Fleming was eventually dismissed for 12 off 12 balls, caught by Yash Thakur off Washington Sundar, leaving Japan with 16 runs needed from the final two overs.

Japan managed 10 runs from the third-last over, including a four from Fleming, reducing the equation to 16 runs from 12 balls. However, India’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing stages.

Despite the defeat, Japan produced a determined performance and came close to what would have been a major upset against India.

The Japanese players were visibly disappointed after the match but walked around the ground applauding the supporters who had stayed through the rain delay to watch the contest.

India, meanwhile, advanced after a dramatic finish, with Axar Patel playing a key role in defending the total in the final over.

Japan will now turn their attention to the Asian Games, which begin on September 24.