Cricket

India thrashes Sri Lanka, to face Pakistan in Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket final

October 1, 2026

India secured a commanding 124-run semifinal victory over Sri Lanka at the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket tournament, thanks in large part to stellar performances from Ishan Kishan and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. After setting a target of 169, the bowling attack dismantled the opposition for just 45 runs, aided by early strikes from Jasprit Bumrah and a flurry of wickets from Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Abhishek Sharma.

The decisive win sets up an upcoming championship clash against Pakistan on Saturday, October 3.

The Men in Blue will battle for the gold medal at the Korogi Athletic Park in Nisshin following Thursday's lopsided semifinal encounter. Sri Lanka's unsuccessful chase was undone by tight spin bowling on a turning pitch as well as three costly run-outs due to poor base running.

Kishan anchored the Indian innings with an impressive 80 runs off 46 deliveries, preceded by a quickfire 38 from Sooryavanshi to establish the early momentum.