India triumphed over Pakistan in the T20 final at the Asian Games, securing their second consecutive gold medal in the tournament. This victory follows a challenging day for the Indian ODI team, which fell short of achieving a series sweep against the West Indies, despite an impressive performance from West Indies captain Shai Hope.
In the final held in Japan, India posted a total of 211 runs for the loss of six wickets in their 20 overs. Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a swift 61 runs from 28 balls, while Tilak Varma contributed an unbeaten 51 from 22 balls. Shivam Dube added a quick 27 runs off 15 deliveries. In response, Pakistan struggled early, slumping to 39 for 3. Although Hasan Nawaz fought back with a commendable 96 off 51 balls, Pakistan ultimately managed only 192 for 6, losing by 19 runs.
This win marks India’s seventh consecutive victory over Pakistan in T20Is and gives them 14 wins out of 18 encounters in the format.
ODI Series Summary
In New Chandigarh, the Indian ODI side scored 351 runs for 7 wickets, but the West Indies chased it down, winning by five wickets with 10 balls to spare. Shai Hope’s remarkable innings of 162 not out led the charge for the West Indies, marking his 21st ODI century and his second high-scoring performance in two matches. Hope’s impressive knock included 17 fours and three sixes, with the match-clinching single coming after he leveled the scores with a slog sweep over deep fine leg.
West Indies overcame a controversial moment when Sherfane Rutherford was given out caught behind, with many believing the Snicko evidence indicated bat on pad rather than bat on ball. The dismissal left the West Indies at 206 for 3 after 30 overs. Hope had built partnerships with Keemo Paul (44) and Gudakesh Motie (19), alongside a significant 109-run stand with Amir Jangoo, who made 67.
India’s innings had begun shakily at 4 for 2, but KL Rahul anchored the team with a noteworthy 129 not out off 87 balls. Rohit Sharma supported well with 92 runs from 85 balls, while Ruturaj Gaikwad added 57 runs off 69 balls. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli fell to successive balls from West Indies bowler Jayden Seales.
Looking ahead, both teams will face off in a five-match T20 series, starting on Tuesday in Lucknow. Players including Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma are set to join the squad following their gold medal success at the Asian Games. Cricket has featured in the Asian Games since 2010, excluding the 2018 event, with India’s debut win in 2022 followed by their current gold medal. The next Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Qatar in November 2030.
