India’s men’s cricket team secured the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026 by defeating Pakistan by 19 runs in the final held at Nisshin on Saturday. Shreyas Iyer’s side posted 211 for 6 in their 20 overs, while Pakistan managed 192 for 6 in response. The victory marked a significant achievement for Indian cricket at the continental tournament and continued the nation’s strong form in T20 cricket throughout the year.
Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Verma delivered crucial batting performances that proved decisive in the gold medal clash. Sharma struck 61 runs, while Verma remained unbeaten on 51, providing the foundation that propelled India to a competitive total. Axar Patel also contributed heroic efforts during the match. Their combined performances were instrumental in securing the medal.
“Nagoya and Japan have written a proud new chapter in cricket’s history. Congratulations to Team India on a campaign worthy of this moment, and heartfelt thanks to every competing nation, to the Olympic Council of Asia and organisers whose vision brought us here, and to the thousands of fans whose presence reminded us why cricket is so special anywhere in the world,” Shah said.
Jay Shah’s message after India’s gold medal victory
The triumph added to India’s medal haul at the Asian Games, with the nation securing its 81st medal overall, including its 19th gold. This success followed the women’s cricket team’s gold medal victory the previous week, giving Indian cricket a remarkable double at the continental event.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and IOA President PT Usha were in attendance at the final, witnessing India’s dominant display against Pakistan. Jay Shah presented the gold medals to the victorious Indian team. The gold medal represented a continuation of India’s excellence in cricket at the Asian Games, cementing the sport’s prominence in the continental competition.
Both the Indian men’s team and the women’s team are now the reigning Asia Cup champions and Asian Cup gold medalists. While Shreyas led the men’s team, Harmanpreet Kaur was in charge of the women’s squad.
