The Asian Games cricket semi-final lineup is confirmed, with India set to face Sri Lanka after persistent rain washed out all four men's quarter-finals in Nagoya. Sri Lanka advanced after its quarter-final against Nepal was abandoned without a toss, with the higher-ranked team progressing under the tournament rules.
Rain disrupts Asian Games cricket
Sri Lanka entered the last four after rain made play impossible at Korogi Sports Park. The team, ranked ninth in the ICC T20I rankings, advanced ahead of Nepal, which was ranked 14th. The abandonment followed India's own quarter-final washout against Afghanistan a day earlier. India, ranked No. 1 in the T20I rankings, progressed under the same rule.
Pakistan and Bangladesh have also reached the semi-finals after their respective quarter-finals were abandoned. Pakistan advanced against Hong Kong, while Bangladesh moved through after its match against Malaysia was washed out. The second semi-final will therefore feature Pakistan against Bangladesh.
The weather has been a recurring issue throughout the competition. Nepal's group-stage match against Japan was previously reduced to 15 overs because of rain, while the saturated conditions at the converted baseball venue have repeatedly prevented matches from taking place. Organisers have been working to prepare the ground for the semi-finals.
India still waiting for a full match
India, led by Shreyas Iyer, have yet to play a complete match in the men's Asian Games tournament. The defending champions entered the knockout stage directly and then progressed to the semi-finals without facing a ball in their quarter-final.
The squad includes experienced players such as Jasprit Bumrah alongside young talent, including 15-year-old batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. VVS Laxman is coaching the side in Gautam Gambhir's absence.
The India-Sri Lanka semi-final is scheduled for October 1, with Pakistan and Bangladesh meeting in the other last-four contest.
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