Shreyas Iyer praises Japan after India survive two-run scare in Sano T20
Synopsis
India needed every bit of their nerve to beat Japan by just two runs in a five-over T20 in Sano — a match that almost became the biggest upset in Japanese cricket history. The win was India's 200th in T20 internationals, but it was Japan's discipline that stole the spotlight, forcing a top-order collapse before Washington Sundar and Axar Patel closed out a breathless finish.
Key Takeaways
India beat Japan by two runs in a five-over T20 in Sano on 22 September 2026 .
The match was delayed by nearly 2.5 hours due to a wet outfield before being reduced to five overs per side .
India were bowled out for just 32 runs ; Shreyas Iyer top-scored with 16 off 12 .
The win was India's 200th T20 international victory , including Super Over results.
Washington Sundar took two wickets ; Axar Patel maintained control in the final over.
India next travel to Nagoya for their Asian Games campaign.
India captain Shreyas Iyer lavished praise on Japan following a dramatic five-over encounter in Sano on Tuesday, 22 September, where India scraped through by just two runs in what also marked the country's 200th T20 international victory. The rain-hit contest, delayed by nearly 2.5 hours due to a wet outfield, stood as a historic moment in bilateral cricketing ties — and nearly produced a shock upset.
How the Match Unfolded
With the contest reduced to five overs per side, India were bowled out for just 32 runs — a total that reflected Japan's disciplined spin bowling and challenging conditions. Shreyas Iyer top-scored with 16 off 12 balls. Japan then launched a spirited chase, coming agonisingly close to 33 before India held on to win by two runs. Washington Sundar claimed two wickets, while Axar Patel maintained control in the closing stages.
Iyer's Remarks After the Match
'First, congratulations to Japan and India for 75 years of diplomatic relationship. It's something that we keep talking about every now and then when we arrive,' Iyer said in his post-match address. He acknowledged the logistical effort involved, noting the squad had endured a three-hour travel to reach the venue, yet remained focused on delivering a contest worthy of the occasion.
'So congratulations to everyone who has been present over here to deliver this particular game, and it's come out so fantastic. Even though it was five overs, I personally feel that at least we got a game to see and to honestly experience such a great performance from the Japanese team and also Indian players as well,' he added. He described Japan's efforts as 'brilliant,' underlining the close-fought nature of the match.
Historic Milestone and Japan's Takeaways
The victory was India's 200th T20 international win, including Super Over results — a landmark that underscores the team's dominance in the shortest format. For Japan, the narrow defeat offered considerable encouragement, with the performance expected to boost confidence heading into their Asian Games campaign.
Iyer on the Captaincy and Asian Games Focus
Leading a side that includes T20 World Cup champions and Asian Games gold medalists, Iyer described the captaincy as a role that brings out the best in him. 'It's a great responsibility as well, but without responsibility, it doesn't come pressure, and I feel that I thrive under pressure,' he said.
With attention now shifting to Nagoya and the Asian Games, Iyer urged a one-step-at-a-time approach. 'First we go to Nagoya, assess the conditions and have the awareness how the wicket is going to play. The more we stick to the present, the better for us,' he concluded.
Point of View
But Japan's near-upset is a data point worth noting: Associate cricket in Asia is closing the gap faster than administrators tend to acknowledge. India's 200th T20I win headline risks masking a batting collapse — bowled out for 32 — that, in any meaningful tournament context, would have been a disaster. Iyer's praise for Japan is gracious, but the team management will be quietly aware that a five-over contest on a damp surface cannot serve as reliable preparation for the Asian Games. The real question is whether the schedule planners are putting competitive pressure on this squad, or merely ticking diplomatic boxes.
NationPress
22 Sept 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the India vs Japan T20 match in Sano?
India beat Japan by two runs in a five-over T20 match in Sano on 22 September 2026. The match was reduced from its full format after a 2.5-hour rain delay due to a wet outfield.
What milestone did India achieve in the Sano T20 match?
The victory was India's 200th win in T20 internationals, including Super Over results. It marked a significant landmark for the team in the shortest format of the game.
Why was the India-Japan T20 match reduced to five overs?
The match was delayed by almost 2.5 hours due to a wet outfield at the venue in Sano, Japan, forcing officials to reduce the contest to five overs per side.
What did Shreyas Iyer say about Japan's performance?
Iyer praised Japan as 'brilliant,' saying the match was an exciting occasion and that he personally valued getting a game despite the difficult circumstances. He also congratulated both nations on 75 years of diplomatic relations.
What is India's next assignment after the Sano T20?
India travel to Nagoya for their Asian Games cricket campaign. Captain Shreyas Iyer stressed the importance of assessing conditions there and taking the tournament one step at a time.
