Shreyas Iyer and Washington Sundar welcome the unique challenge as India prepare to defend their Asian Games cricket gold.
India are preparing for a historic cricket encounter as they get ready to face Japan for the first time in international cricket on Tuesday. The one-off T20I will be played at the Sano International Cricket Ground and serves as an important preparation match before the Asian Games 2026.
Led by captain Shreyas Iyer, India will enter the fixture after a convincing 3-0 T20I series victory over Afghanistan. The team will then turn its attention to the Asian Games, where cricket will feature in a 10-team men’s T20 competition scheduled from September 24 to October 3 in Aichi-Nagoya.
India are the defending Asian Games champions after securing the gold medal in Hangzhou in 2023. Japan, meanwhile, have been an ICC Associate Member since 2005 and are continuing to develop their presence in international cricket.
Iyer said the Indian squad was eager to experience a different environment and understand the Japanese players ahead of the unusual contest. He also highlighted the cultural differences between Japan and countries India traditionally tour, describing the trip as a fresh challenge for the team.
The Indian captain added that the squad was looking forward to embracing the local culture while adapting quickly to the conditions and surroundings. He also hoped favorable weather would allow spectators to enjoy a competitive match.
All-rounder Washington Sundar shared Iyer’s enthusiasm, calling the fixture a historic occasion for Indian cricket. Sundar, who was part of India’s gold-medal-winning squad in Hangzhou, said the players were grateful to participate in India’s first international match against Japan.
The all-rounder also pointed toward the 2028 Olympics, when cricket will return to the Olympic programme. He said the global event would provide another major platform for teams and expressed hope that India could eventually claim Olympic gold.
Sundar believes India’s strong record in the T20 format can provide momentum heading into the Asian Games. The team plans to use its time in Tokyo to prepare thoroughly before beginning its gold-medal defence.