Asian Games Cricket: India to Take on Sri Lanka in Semi-Final After All Quarterfinals Washed Out

India will face Sri Lanka in the men’s cricket semi-final at the Asian Games after all four quarter-final matches were abandoned due to rain.

Sri Lanka advanced to the last four after their quarter-final against Nepal in Nagoya was called off without a toss. With persistent rain preventing any play at Korogi Sports Park, Sri Lanka progressed on the basis of their higher ICC T20I ranking. Sri Lanka are ranked ninth, while Nepal are 14th.

India had already secured a semi-final berth after their quarter-final against Afghanistan was abandoned on Monday. The top-ranked side in the ICC T20I standings advanced ahead of Afghanistan, who are ranked 10th.

In the other quarter-finals, Bangladesh progressed after their match against Malaysia was washed out, while Pakistan advanced after their game against Hong Kong was abandoned. Pakistan will meet Bangladesh in the second semi-final. Both semi-finals are scheduled for Thursday.

Rain has repeatedly disrupted the cricket competition in Nagoya. Nepal’s group-stage match against Japan on Saturday was reduced to 15 overs, with Nepal posting 149 for four before rain prevented Japan from beginning their chase.

India are yet to play a match in the tournament. Shreyas Iyer is captaining the team, with VVS Laxman serving as coach in Gautam Gambhir’s absence. The squad includes senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah and 15-year-old batting prospect Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Following India’s washed-out quarter-final, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi said the team was eager to finally get on the field and compete.

The players are also embracing the wider Asian Games experience in Nagoya, with Bishnoi noting that the multi-sport event gives them an opportunity to watch and experience disciplines beyond cricket.