India is set to kick off their campaign in the 2026 Asian Games with an important quarterfinal match against Afghanistan on Monday. The match, taking place in Nisshin, Japan, could be heavily impacted by the weather conditions, which are expected to be challenging.
Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, the Indian team is considered the favorite, boasting a strong T20I lineup as they aim to defend their gold medal from 2023. In contrast, Afghanistan will field a revamped squad led by Darwish Rasooli, who hopes the conditions will even the odds against their more formidable opponent.
The weather in Aichi Prefecture poses a significant concern, particularly since the women’s tournament earlier this month was affected by rain, with one of the quarterfinals completely washed out. Similar conditions could disrupt the men’s knockout stage as well.
India has adapted its strategy, putting an emphasis on spin bowling with players like Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Ravi Bishnoi ready to take on the typically slow-friendly pitches of Japan.
Weather forecasts for the match day indicate a high likelihood of rain, which may overshadow the game itself. According to reports, there is a 96% chance of precipitation on September 28, with predictions of overcast skies and numerous rain showers throughout the day. Some forecasts suggest the area may receive up to 48 mm of rain.
Nisshin Weather Forecast for the Match
Timing in IST (Indian Standard Time):
- 10:00 a.m.: 24°C, rain chance 60%
- 11:00 a.m.: 24°C, rain chance 55%
- 12:00 p.m.: 22°C, rain chance 60%
- 1:00 p.m.: 21°C, rain chance 65%
- 2:00 p.m.: 20°C, rain chance 55%
While different sources may show slight variations in the exact chance of rain, there’s a consensus that the likelihood of interruption is significant. Many days in September have seen rainfall in Nisshin, indicating that delays, reduced overs, or multiple stoppages could be unavoidable.
What Happens If the Match is Rained Out?
In the Asian Games, if a knockout match ends up being abandoned and no result can be declared, the higher-ranked team based on the ICC’s T20I rankings is named the winner. With India well above Afghanistan in these rankings, they would automatically advance to the semi-finals, regardless of whether any cricket is actually played.
There is no reserve day scheduled for the tournament, which makes it crucial that matches proceed without significant delays.
Match Timing and Viewing Options
The anticipated quarterfinal between India and Afghanistan is set to take place at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin. The match is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. JST (Japan Standard Time) on Monday, September 28, which is 10:00 a.m. IST for viewers in India.
Fans in India can watch the match live on the Sony Sports Network, and it will also be available for streaming on the Sony LIV app.
As excitement builds for this crucial matchup, all eyes will be on both the teams and the skies above Nisshin on game day.
