India will face Pakistan in the men's cricket final at the Asian Games 2026 on October 3, setting up the tournament's most anticipated clash.

India stormed into the final with a crushing 124-run win over Sri Lanka in the semifinal on October 1. Ishan Kishan smashed an unbeaten 80 off 46 balls as India posted 169 for 7, before Sri Lanka were bowled out for just 45.

Pakistan booked their place in the final from the other semifinal, setting up a repeat of the 2023 Hangzhou final, which India won.

The final will decide the gold medal, with the loser taking silver. Both teams have been strong through the tournament's knockout stage.

India's batting firepower and Pakistan's bowling attack make this a classic contest. Fans can expect a full house and a high-voltage atmosphere for one of Asian cricket's fiercest rivalries.

The match is expected to draw a huge television audience in both countries. India will start as favourites after their dominant semifinal, but Pakistan's pace attack on a helpful surface could make it a close contest.