The 2026 Men’s cricket event at the Asian Games saw a major upset as Nepal defeated Afghanistan in a result that has left the Indian cricket team guessing about their opponent in the quarter-final, which will take place on Monday (September 28).
Ahead of the final game in Group A between Nepal and Japan on Saturday (September 26) at the Karogi Sports.
Currently, after playing two games, Afghanistan have two points following a win over the hosts by 48 runs on Thursday (September 24). Meanwhile, Nepal and Japan have two and zero points, respectively, on the board after playing one game.
Group A Standings Men’s Asian Games 2026
| Team | Played | Points | NRR |
| Afghanistan | 2 | 2 | +0.846 |
| Nepal | 1 | 2 | +0.842 |
| Japan | 1 | 0 | -2.400 |
What Are Afghanistan, Japan, and Nepal’s Qualification Scenarios?
Afghanistan – They will qualify in second place if they beat Nepal and beat Japan. If Japan beats Nepal by a margin that is not too big, they will secure the first spot. They are unlikely to miss out, as even if Japan beat Nepal, the latter’s NRR is lower.
Nepal – They will qualify for the first spot with a win over Japan. They will qualify in second place if they lose to Japan but not by a big margin.
Japan – They will qualify in second place if they beat Nepal by a big margin.
Who Will India Face?
India are supposed to face the team that finished second in this group (A2). Hence, they will face Afghanistan if Nepal beats Japan. If Japan wins over Nepal, they will face either of those teams. Meanwhile, the group winners (A1) will face Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Pakistan are set to play B2 (Malaysia/Hong Kong/Oman), while Bangladesh will face the group toppers.
The winner of the India/A2 clash will face either Sri Lanka or A1 in the semi-final.