JPN vs AFG 2026: Japan vs Afghanistan 1st Match Preview
Japan vs Afghanistan is scheduled for the opening match of Group A at the Asian Games 2026. Here is a complete guide covering the match date, timing, venue, squads, broadcast information and key points to follow.
JPN vs AFG 2026 Match Details
The Asian Games 2026 will feature Japan and Afghanistan in the first match of Group A. The fixture is scheduled at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan. Meanwhile, cricket followers in India can follow the match early in the morning according to Indian Standard Time.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Japan vs Afghanistan |
| Competition | Asian Games 2026 |
| Stage | 1st Match, Group A |
| Date | 24 September 2026 |
| Local Time | 9:00 AM |
| GMT | 12:00 AM |
| India Time | 5:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin, Japan |
Japan vs Afghanistan Match Preview
Japan and Afghanistan will begin their Asian Games 2026 campaign with this Group A fixture. The match brings two different cricket backgrounds together on the same stage. Therefore, supporters can expect plenty of interest around the opening contest.
Japan will have the advantage of playing in familiar surroundings because the match is being held in Japan. On the other hand, Afghanistan enter the fixture with a squad that includes several recognised names from their cricket setup. Furthermore, the match gives both teams an important opportunity to start their campaign positively.
The opening Group A fixture will be closely followed by fans looking for team news, playing XI updates, match timing and live coverage information.
Japan Squad for Asian Games 2026
Japan have named a 15-member squad for the Asian Games 2026 fixture. Kendel Fleming will lead the side, while the squad includes players such as Benjamin Ito Davis, Reo Sakurano Thomas and Wataru Miyauchi.
Afghanistan Squad for Asian Games 2026
Afghanistan will be led by Darwish Rasooli in this Group A encounter. Their squad features players including Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Nangeyalia Kharoti and Mohammad Ishaq. In addition, the team includes several other players selected for the Asian Games campaign.
Players to Watch in JPN vs AFG
Team captains will naturally attract attention before the opening match. Kendel Fleming leads Japan, while Darwish Rasooli is the Afghanistan captain. Similarly, players such as Najibullah Zadran and Karim Janat will be names to watch as team combinations become clearer.
Kendel Fleming
Japan’s captain will have an important leadership role during the opening Group A fixture. His presence will be one of the main talking points around the Japanese side.
Darwish Rasooli
Afghanistan will be led by Darwish Rasooli. Consequently, his role will be important as the team begins its Asian Games campaign.
Najibullah Zadran
Najibullah Zadran is included in Afghanistan’s squad. Therefore, his inclusion is another point fans may follow when the final team combination is announced.
Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin – Venue Guide
Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan, will host the JPN vs AFG Group A fixture. The venue is part of the Asian Games 2026 cricket schedule provided for this match. Moreover, its location in Japan means local supporters can follow the contest at the designated ground.
Venue Information
Ground: Korogi Sports Park
Location: Nisshin, Japan
Competition: Asian Games 2026
JPN vs AFG Match Time in India
Indian cricket followers can watch the match according to the following schedule. The local start time is 9:00 AM in Japan, while the corresponding Indian start time is 5:30 AM IST. Meanwhile, the GMT timing is listed as 12:00 AM.
JPN vs AFG 2026 Live Streaming & Broadcast
According to the supplied match information, viewers in India can follow the fixture through SonyLIV streaming. Additionally, Sony Sports Network is listed for television coverage. Therefore, fans should check their preferred Sony platform before the match begins for the latest availability information.
Live Streaming
Platform: SonyLIV
Check the platform for the scheduled live coverage before the match.
TV Broadcast
Network: Sony Sports Network
Television viewers can check the relevant Sony Sports channel listing for coverage.
Silverexch Cricket Updates
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You can also explore the latest cricket updates for more information about upcoming fixtures and tournaments. Similarly, readers looking for online cricket information can visit the relevant Silverexch section.
What to Watch Before JPN vs AFG
Playing XI
Final playing XIs can provide important information before the match. Hence, fans should check the confirmed line-ups close to the start.
Match Conditions
Local ground conditions can become an important talking point once the teams arrive at the venue. Meanwhile, the final match setup may offer more context.
Live Updates
Team announcements and live score updates will help followers stay informed. In addition, confirmed information can change the match-day picture.
Asian Games 2026 Match Information
The complete Asian Games 2026 match schedule can be checked through the series information. For detailed fixture information, use the reference below.
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Explore Cricket UpdatesJPN vs AFG 2026 FAQs
When is JPN vs AFG 2026?
Japan vs Afghanistan is scheduled for 24 September 2026 as the first match of Group A at the Asian Games 2026.
What time does JPN vs AFG start in India?
The match is scheduled to start at 5:30 AM IST in India.
Where will JPN vs AFG be played?
The match will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan.
Where can Indian viewers watch JPN vs AFG?
The supplied match information lists SonyLIV for streaming and Sony Sports Network for television coverage.
Who are the captains of Japan and Afghanistan?
Kendel Fleming is listed as Japan’s captain, while Darwish Rasooli is listed as Afghanistan’s captain.
Where can I find the Asian Games 2026 schedule?
The complete match schedule is available through the Asian Games 2026 series information.
Final Thoughts
JPN vs AFG will open Group A action at the Asian Games 2026. Japan will face Afghanistan at Korogi Sports Park, with the match scheduled for 9:00 AM local time. For Indian viewers, the fixture begins at 5:30 AM IST.
Furthermore, both squads have been announced for the contest, giving fans plenty to follow before the first ball. Keep an eye on the confirmed playing XIs, broadcast information and official match updates as the fixture approaches.