Pakistan have qualified for the men’s cricket final at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Bangladesh by six wickets in their semi-final in Nishin, Japan.
The match was reduced to 13 overs per side because of a wet outfield, with Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan winning the toss and electing to field first.
Bangladesh posted 111 for seven from their 13 overs, with Towhid Hridoy leading the batting effort with 42 runs.
Pakistan’s bowlers kept Bangladesh under pressure throughout the shortened innings. Sufiyan Muqeem claimed three wickets, while Arafat Minhas picked up two.
Set a target of 112, Pakistan completed the chase in the 12th over for the loss of four wickets.
Abdul Samad played the decisive innings, remaining unbeaten on 30 from just 15 deliveries. Hassan Nawaz contributed 27 from 22 balls, while Saim Ayub struck 21 from 12.
The six-wicket victory secured Pakistan’s place in the Asian Games final and guaranteed the country another medal at the event.