All-rounder Washington Sundar on Monday, 21 September said India are thrilled to be part of a historic first-ever men's T20I against Japan at Sano, even as the squad keeps its primary sights locked on winning the gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games. Speaking ahead of the one-off Tuesday clash, Sundar also gushed about Japan's infrastructure, calling it 10-15 years ahead of most countries he has visited.

Sundar Blown Away by Japan's Technology and Cleanliness

'It's beautiful. I feel the technology is so much more advanced than most of the countries I've been to,' Sundar told reporters on the eve of the match. 'The facilities are amazing, especially this hotel and around the hotel, everything is so clean.' The Chennai-based cricketer added that friends had warned him Japan would feel futuristic — and the country had not disappointed on first impression, despite the squad having had little time to explore beyond the team hotel.

Historic India vs Japan Clash Under Typhoon Threat

Tuesday's fixture at Sano is reportedly the first-ever men's T20I between India and Japan, making it a milestone for cricket's growth in Asia. The game, however, faces an external threat: Typhoon Dujuan is tracking close enough to cast uncertainty over proceedings. 'For all of us to be a part of such a historical game and an event, we're really grateful,' Sundar said. The India squad is scheduled to travel to Tokyo to prepare for the Asian Games after the Sano fixture.

Sundar Unfamiliar With Japan's Lineup, Keen on Interaction

Admitting he has not studied the Japanese squad, Sundar said he is eager to engage with the local players and gauge cricket's growing footprint in the country. 'I haven't seen most of the players, but really looking forward to play a good game against them and obviously have a bit of interaction with them and understand what they think about cricket in Japan,' he said. He expressed hope that Japan's cricketers would one day travel the world and compete at the highest level.

Asian Games Gold and the 2028 Olympics on India's Radar

As reigning T20 World Cup holders, India are expected to be the dominant force at the Asian Games. Sundar, who was part of India's squad at the Asian Games in China the previous year, underlined that winning gold remains the mission. With cricket included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics for the first time in the modern era, Sundar also pointed to the even bigger prize on the horizon. 'If we can win the gold medal in Olympics, it will be a massive blessing,' he observed, noting that more top cricket nations will compete in that field. He described the Asian Games as preparation and motivation in equal measure.

Off the Field: Sundar Eyes Japanese Cuisine

Beyond cricket, Sundar has a culinary agenda in Japan. 'I'm a massive fan of Japanese food. So, I'm definitely looking forward to try a lot of Japanese delicacies and just go to different Japanese restaurants and more authentic restaurants,' he said. He described the opportunity to experience local food culture as a highlight of the tour, adding that authentic Japanese dining in Japan itself would be a different experience altogether.