India’s 19-run win over Pakistan in the Asian Games men’s cricket final was about more than a gold medal. Here is why the victory in Nisshin matters.

The golden double. India’s men joined the women as Asian Games champions. The women beat Sri Lanka by 147 runs on September 22. India’s cricketers have now won gold in every Asian Games edition featuring the sport’s current format.

Abhishek’s statement innings. Abhishek Sharma’s 61 off 28 balls included seven sixes. His 20-ball fifty was the fastest by an Indian against Pakistan in T20 internationals. Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 51 off 22 showed India’s remarkable batting depth.

Pakistan’s lone warrior. Hasan Nawaz’s 96 off 51 balls was one of the great losing efforts in a final. But India’s spinners — Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube took two wickets each — never let Pakistan’s chase breathe. Jasprit Bumrah’s early overs set the tone.

What it means for LA 2028. The win defends the title India won at Hangzhou 2022. With cricket returning to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028, this young Indian side has sent an early message to the world.