Japan Cricket Association COO Alan Curr says the historic T20I against India could significantly raise cricket’s profile in Japan. The JCA has upgraded the Sano venue and hopes the match will attract more established cricket nations while strengthening grassroots development
India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer sees the Asian Games as an opportunity to adapt to unfamiliar conditions, build team synergy and carry momentum from the 3-0 Afghanistan series win. He also praised Abhishek Sharma and the team's positive dressing-room culture
Afghanistan will host India in a bilateral series for the first time, marking a significant shift in their cricketing journey. India return with Jasprit Bumrah, while Afghanistan rely on their formidable spin attack and growing familiarity with Indian conditions.
India captain Shreyas Iyer described his team's 3-0 T20I series sweep of Zimbabwe as "flawless", praising the players and support staff for executing plans perfectly. Head coach VVS Laxman also commended Iyer's leadership and the squad's winning mindset throughout the tour.