India survived a scare against Japan in a rain-reduced five-over thriller at the Asian Games on September 22, winning by just 2 runs in the first-ever men’s T20I between the two sides.

India posted 32 for 4 in their five overs before restricting Japan to 30 for 3 in a tense finish. The match, shortened by rain, tested India’s young squad against a spirited Japanese side making its mark in international cricket.

India later reached the semi-finals without playing their quarter-final, after the match against Afghanistan was washed out by rain.

The result highlights cricket’s expanding footprint in Asia, with the sport featuring at the Games as it builds toward wider global audiences. India remain among the favourites for the gold medal, with the knockout stages set to test their nerve. Japan’s cricket programme has grown rapidly in recent years, supported by grassroots leagues and expatriate communities. Taking mighty India to the final ball in their first-ever meeting will rank among Japanese cricket’s finest hours, whatever the knockout results bring.