Pakistan booked their place in the men’s cricket gold medal match at the Asian Games 2026 after defeating Bangladesh in a rain-shortened first semi-final at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan.
A wet outfield reduced the contest to 13 overs per side, but the shortened format did little to reduce the intensity. Bangladesh managed 111/7 after being asked to bat first, before Pakistan chased down the revised target with six wickets in hand and nine balls remaining.
Bangladesh post 111 after Pakistan opt to bowl
Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan won the toss and elected to field, hoping his bowling attack could make early inroads on a surface affected by rain.
Bangladesh were restricted to 111/7 in their 13 overs, with Towhid Hridoy emerging as their leading run-scorer. The middle-order batter contributed 42 runs, giving Bangladesh something to defend despite the reduced number of overs.
Pakistan’s spin attack played a major role. Sufyan Moqim claimed three wickets, while Arafat Minhas picked up two. Saim Ayub also chipped in with a wicket as Bangladesh struggled to maintain momentum throughout the shortened innings.
Pakistan’s chase gets off to a difficult start
Chasing 112 from 13 overs, Pakistan lost wickets during the early stages of their innings and found themselves under pressure at 53/4 after 6.1 overs.
The situation demanded aggressive batting, and that is exactly what Pakistan received from Abdul Samad.
Samad walked in and changed the tempo of the chase with an explosive innings. He eventually finished with 30 from just 15 balls, striking five fours and a six at a remarkable strike rate of 200.
His aggressive approach immediately reduced the pressure on Pakistan.
Hasan Nawaz provides crucial support to Abdul Samad
At the other end, Hasan Nawaz played a valuable supporting role.
Nawaz remained unbeaten on 27 from 22 deliveries, including a four and two sixes. His partnership with Samad proved decisive as Pakistan moved rapidly towards the target.
The pair added 59 runs from only 32 balls, turning what had looked like a tricky chase into a manageable equation.
Pakistan completed the chase at 112/6 in 11.3 overs and booked their place into the final.
Also READ: Irani Cup 2026 – Jammu and Kashmir vs Rest Of India – Date, Match Time & Live Streaming Details
Pakistan through to Gold Medal match
Pakistan’s victory sends Farhan’s side into the Asian Games 2026 gold medal match, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and Sri Lanka.
The final is scheduled for October 3, while the losing semi-finalists will compete in the bronze medal match.
