India retained the Asian Games men's cricket gold medal, beating arch-rivals Pakistan by 19 runs in the final at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Saturday, October 3. It is India's second consecutive gold in the event. Head coach VVS Laxman praised the players' adaptability and preparation and the leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer. In a video shared by the BCCI, Laxman said the team faced challenges in Japan including weather, travel and limited practice opportunities. He said the players left no stone unturned to stay ready, completing fitness sessions indoors and using every outdoor session fully. Laxman praised the squad's positive intent on a difficult semi-final pitch and their professional performance in the final with both bat and ball. India had earlier won the title at the previous edition, and the victory extends the team's dominance in the multi-sport event. The gold adds to India's medal tally at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, where the women's team also tasted success.