New Delhi: India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs in a thrilling men’s cricket final at the Asian Games 2026 in Nisshin on Saturday, securing the gold medal in a high pressure clash between the arch rivals.
After winning the toss, India captain Shreyas Iyer opted to bat first and his team produced a powerful batting display. India posted 211 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, putting Pakistan under significant pressure from the outset.
Opener Abhishek Sharma provided India with a flying start, smashing 61 runs from just 28 deliveries. His aggressive innings gave India early momentum before the middle order continued the assault.
Tilak Varma delivered another outstanding performance under pressure, remaining unbeaten on 51 from only 22 balls. His explosive finish helped India cross the 200 run mark and gave the team a formidable total to defend.
Shivam Dube also made an important contribution with 27 off 14 balls as India maintained a strong scoring rate throughout the innings.
Pakistan’s bowlers managed to strike back at regular intervals, with Arafat Minhas and Ahmed Daniyal claiming two wickets each. However, India’s batting depth ensured that Pakistan were left with a daunting target of 212.
In the chase, Pakistan fought hard but India maintained control during the crucial stages of the innings. Washington Sundar played a key role with his all round performance, while India’s bowling unit held its nerve when Pakistan attempted to accelerate.
India eventually restricted Pakistan to fall 19 runs short of the target, completing a memorable victory and adding the Asian Games men’s cricket gold medal to their campaign.
The result gives India another major triumph over Pakistan on the international stage, with Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar emerging as two of the standout performers in a dramatic gold medal contest.
