Asian Games 2026 | JPN vs AFG Match Prediction | Group A, 1st Match – Who Will Win Japan vs Afghanistan Match?

Japan vs Afghanistan – 1st Match

The 1st Group A match of the Asian Games 2026 will see Japan take on Afghanistan on Thursday, September 24, at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin. The match will begin at 9:00 AM local time, 12:00 AM GMT and 5:30 AM IST. Afghanistan enter as clear favourites given their vast international experience, while Japan will look to compete hard as they build their cricketing profile at the Games.

Afghanistan have an experienced batting group featuring Najibullah Zadran, Ismat Alam, Karim Janat, Darwish Rasooli and Imran Mir. Najibullah Zadran can provide power and finishing ability through the middle order, while Ismat Alam and Karim Janat offer further top-order stability. Darwish Rasooli leads the side and adds experience at the crease.

Afghanistan also have several quality all-rounders. Karim Janat, Nangeyalia Kharoti and Mohammad Ishaq can contribute with both bat and ball, giving the side considerable balance and flexibility to adapt to conditions.

The Afghanistan bowling attack includes Arab Gul Momand, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Farmanullah Safi and Nangeyalia Kharoti. This group brings a mix of pace and spin options, giving Afghanistan several ways to control the innings and pick up wickets.

Japan’s batting lineup features Kendel Fleming, Benjamin Ito Davis, Reo Sakurano Thomas and Charlie Hara-Hinze. Kendel Fleming leads the side and can provide stability at the top of the order, while Benjamin Ito Davis and Reo Sakurano Thomas look to build partnerships through the innings.

Japan also have useful all-round depth with Wataru Miyauchi, Kohei Kubota and Alester Fleming capable of contributing in multiple departments, giving the side some flexibility with both bat and ball.

The Japan bowling attack features Ibrahim Takahashi, Tsuyoshi Takada, Declan Suzuki and Shoma Slater. This unit will look to build pressure with disciplined bowling and take advantage of any opportunities that come their way.

This match could see Afghanistan dominate given their considerable experience advantage, though Japan will hope to put up a competitive fight on home soil. Afghanistan will depend heavily on Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Darwish Rasooli, Arab Gul Momand and Nangeyalia Kharoti, while Japan’s chances could be shaped by Kendel Fleming, Benjamin Ito Davis and their bowling unit staying disciplined. Afghanistan hold a significant advantage given their international pedigree and squad depth.

Expert Prediction: Afghanistan have an 80% chance and Japan have a 20% winning chance.

Disclaimer: This video expresses the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.

Dive into Sports World like never before! Visit Bjsports for Featured Videos made just for you—relive golden nostalgia, feel the thrill of today’s updates, and stay ahead of the Sports World. Don’t miss a moment—join the fun now!