Match: Afghanistan vs Nepal – 4th Match, Group A
Series: Asian Games Men’s T20I, 2026
Venue: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin
Date & Time: September 25, 2026, 10:30 AM IST, 5:00 AM GMT, 2:00 PM LOCAL
Live Streaming: SonyLIV
TV Broadcast: Sony Sports Network
Introduction
The Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket competition is heating up, and Match 4 of Group A brings together two fascinating sides with very different stories. Afghanistan, riding high on their opening win over Japan, take on a Nepal side making their tournament debut. This isn’t just about points — it’s about quarter-final qualification in a group where every match matters.
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Afghanistan opened their campaign with a 48-run victory over Japan. Their batting was far from convincing — they managed just 129 for 6 — but their bowlers, particularly the spinners, strangled Japan to 81 . It was a professional if unspectacular performance. Nepal, meanwhile, arrive with genuine momentum after a strong T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year where they pushed England to the brink .
This match carries extra significance for Nepal. They’re not just here to participate — they qualified by topping their qualifying group with dominant performances, including a record-breaking 221-run win over China where Kushal Bhurtel smashed a 43-ball 129 . They believe they can compete.
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Match Details & Tournament Context
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | Asian Games Men’s T20I, 2026 |
| Match | 4th Match, Group A |
| Date | September 25, 2026 |
| Time | 10:30 AM IST, 5:00 AM GMT, 2:00 PM LOCAL |
| Venue | Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin |
| Broadcast (India) | Sony Sports Network |
| Streaming | SonyLIV |
Group A Context
Group A features Afghanistan, Nepal, and Japan. With only the top two teams guaranteed a spot in the quarter-finals, every match is a virtual knockout . Afghanistan have already secured one win. Nepal are yet to play. Japan, having lost to Afghanistan, face a must-win against Nepal in their next game.
For Afghanistan, a win here would all but seal their place in the knockouts. For Nepal, a victory would throw the group wide open and announce their arrival as genuine medal contenders.
Why This Match Matters
1. Quarter-Final Qualification: A win for either side puts them in a commanding position to advance. A loss complicates everything.
2. Afghanistan’s New-Look Squad: This is not the Afghanistan side you’re used to seeing. Led by Darwish Rasooli, the squad is packed with young talent from the Shpageeza Cricket League, with six players in line to make their international debuts .
3. Nepal’s Rising Profile: Nepal have been one of the most improved T20 sides in world cricket. A win over a Full Member nation like Afghanistan would be another statement of intent.
4. Betting Value: With Afghanistan’s batting looking shaky against Japan and Nepal’s batting firepower well-documented, the markets might be mispricing this contest.
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Head-to-Head Record: Afghanistan vs Nepal in T20Is
The head-to-head record between these two sides is surprisingly one-sided in Nepal’s favour — but the sample size is tiny.
| Stat | Afghanistan | Nepal |
|---|---|---|
| Total T20Is Played | 1 | 1 |
| Wins | 0 | 1 |
| Nepal Won | – | 1 |
Nepal have won the only T20I these two sides have played against each other . That result came in a context where Afghanistan fielded a second-string side. This match will be a proper test for both nations.
What the Numbers Tell Us
Afghanistan’s overall T20I record in the last year shows 17 matches played with 8 wins (47.06% win rate). Nepal’s record in the same period is 19 matches with 14 wins (73.68% win rate) . Those numbers don’t lie — Nepal have been the more consistent T20 side over the past 12 months.
But Afghanistan’s squad at this tournament is young and untested. The raw talent is there, but international experience is limited.
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Venue & Pitch Report: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin
The Korogi Sports Park is a newly developed cricket venue converted from a baseball facility. It has hosted only one competitive tournament so far — the T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in May 2026 .
| Venue Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Stadium | Korogi Sports Park |
| City | Nisshin, Japan |
| Capacity | ~2,000 (temporary) |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 135 |
| Pitch Type | Hybrid (natural clay + synthetic fibres) |
| Boundary Size | Shortest: 65 metres |
Pitch Behavior
The pitch at Korogi Sports Park is a hybrid surface using local clay and synthetic fibres. It has been compared to pitches in Pakistan that offer both bounce and turn . The curator, Asitha Wijayasinghe from Sri Lanka, has prepared surfaces that should be high-scoring, given Pallekele’s reputation .
Key Observations:
- Batting-Friendly: The pitch is expected to play on the slower end, with help for bowling sides, especially spinners .
- Spin Dominance: Spinners are expected to take 60% of the wickets at this venue, compared to 40% for pacers .
- Bounce and Grip: The clay content provides bounce for pacers and grip for spinners .
- Short Boundaries: The shortest boundary is 65 metres, which encourages aggressive stroke play .
Toss Strategy
Given the pitch’s tendency to slow down and assist spinners, the captain winning the toss is likely to elect to bat first. Setting a target and then defending it with spin appears to be the preferred strategy at this venue.
Weather Forecast for Nisshin on September 25
| Weather Aspect | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24°C – 30°C |
| Condition | Clear |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Rain Probability | Low |
Clear weather is expected in Nisshin, with no significant chance of rain . The match should proceed without interruption.
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Team Analysis: Afghanistan
Afghanistan enter this match with a squad that’s been stripped of its biggest names. Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran are all absent. In their place is a young squad led by Darwish Rasooli .
Strengths
1. Spin Bowling Depth
Nangeyalia Kharote is the most experienced bowler in the squad and is expected to lead the spin attack. Leg-spinner Arab Gul Momand is another key weapon . On a pitch that offers grip and turn, Afghanistan’s spinners could be decisive.
2. Emerging Talent
Several players have earned their spots through standout performances in the Shpageeza Cricket League. Ismat Alam was Player of the Tournament after scoring 294 runs at a strike rate of 168 and taking nine wickets at an average of 16.77 . Mohammad Akram was the second-highest run-scorer in the SCL .
3. Experience in Key Positions
Najibullah Zadran (199 caps) and Karim Janat (80 caps) bring valuable experience to the middle order and all-round department .
Weaknesses
1. Batting Vulnerability
Afghanistan managed just 129 for 6 against Japan in their opening match. That’s a below-par total, and it exposed the batting line-up’s fragility . Against a better bowling attack like Nepal’s, they could struggle even more.
2. Lack of International Experience
Six players in the squad are in line to make their international debuts. That’s a lot of inexperience for a tournament where every match matters .
3. Pressure Handling
With a young squad, handling the pressure of a must-win game could be a challenge.
Afghanistan Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Darwish Rasooli (c) | Captain & Batter |
| Mohammad Ishaq (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Mohammad Akram | Batter |
| Hassan Eisakhil | Batter |
| Karim Janat | All-rounder |
| Najibullah Zadran | Batter |
| Ismat Alam | All-rounder |
| Abdullah Ahmadzai | All-rounder |
| Faridoon Dawoodzai | Batter |
| Nangeyalia Kharoti | All-rounder |
| Arab Gul Momand | Bowler |
| Imran Mir | Batter |
| Farmanullah Safi | Bowler |
| Khalid Taniwal | Batter |
| Faisal Shinozada | Batter |
Key Players to Watch
| Player | Role | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Darwish Rasooli | Captain & Batter | Leadership, top-order stability |
| Nangeyalia Kharoti | All-rounder | Spin bowling, key wicket-taker |
| Ismat Alam | All-rounder | Player of the Tournament in SCL, 294 runs & 9 wickets |
| Najibullah Zadran | Batter | 199 T20I caps, middle-order experience |
| Arab Gul Momand | Bowler | Leg-spin, wicket-taking threat |
Team Analysis: Nepal
Nepal enter this tournament with genuine belief. They qualified by topping their group in the Asian Games Qualifier, and their recent T20 form has been excellent .
Strengths
1. Explosive Batting Line-up
Kushal Bhurtel is one of the most destructive openers in Associate cricket. He scored a 43-ball 129 against China in the qualifiers, including six sixes in one over . Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee provide stability and experience in the middle order .
2. Quality Spin Attack
Sandeep Lamichhane remains Nepal’s premier spinner, with 142 T20I wickets at an average of 12.76 . Lalit Rajbanshi provides another established option, and both Kushal Malla and Dipendra Singh Airee can chip in with useful spin .
3. All-Round Depth
Dipendra Singh Airee is one of the best all-rounders in Associate cricket. He has scored 2,220 T20I runs at an average of 34.15 and taken 62 wickets at an average of 20.85 . That’s genuine two-way value.
4. Momentum and Confidence
Nepal’s recent form has been outstanding. They’ve won 14 of their last 19 T20Is . They pushed England close in the T20 World Cup. They believe they can beat anyone.
Weaknesses
1. First Match of the Tournament
This is Nepal’s opening game of the Asian Games. While they’ve played warm-up matches, there’s nothing quite like competitive cricket. Afghanistan have already got one match under their belt.
2. Pressure of Expectation
Nepal are no longer underdogs in Associate cricket. They’re expected to perform. Handling that expectation in a major tournament is a different challenge.
3. Pace Attack Depth
While Nepal have experience in the pace department with Karan KC (112 T20I wickets) and Sompal Kami (89 wickets), they lack the raw pace to trouble top-order batters consistently .
Nepal Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Dipendra Singh Airee (c) | Captain & All-rounder |
| Aasif Sheikh (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Kushal Bhurtel | Batter |
| Rohit Paudel | Batter |
| Aarif Sheikh | Batter |
| Kushal Malla | All-rounder |
| Gulsan Jha | All-rounder |
| Sundeep Jora | Batter |
| Sandeep Lamichhane | Spinner |
| Karan KC | Pacer |
| Lalit Rajbanshi | Spinner |
| Lokesh Bam | Batter |
| Sompal Kami | Pacer |
| Sher Malla | Spinner |
| Nandan Yadav | Pacer |
Key Players to Watch
| Player | Role | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Kushal Bhurtel | Opener | 2,325 T20I runs, explosive hitter |
| Dipendra Singh Airee | Captain & All-rounder | 2,220 runs & 62 wickets, genuine match-winner |
| Sandeep Lamichhane | Spinner | 142 T20I wickets at 12.76 average |
| Rohit Paudel | Batter | 1,845 T20I runs, middle-order stability |
| Karan KC | Pacer | 112 T20I wickets, death bowling |
Predicted Playing XI
Afghanistan Predicted XI
- Mohammad Ishaq (WK)
- Darwish Rasooli (C)
- Mohammad Akram
- Najibullah Zadran
- Ismat Alam
- Hassan Eisakhil
- Nangeyalia Kharoti
- Faridoon Dawoodzai
- Karim Janat
- Arab Gul Momand
- Abdullah Ahmadzai
Impact Player: Faisal Shinozada / Khalid Taniwal
Nepal Predicted XI
- Aasif Sheikh (WK)
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Rohit Paudel
- Dipendra Singh Airee (C)
- Kushal Malla
- Sundeep Jora
- Gulsan Jha
- Karan KC
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Sompal Kami
- Lalit Rajbanshi
Impact Player: Sher Malla / Nandan Yadav
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Match Prediction & Analysis
Key Factors That Will Decide the Match
1. Afghanistan’s Batting vs Nepal’s Spinners
Afghanistan struggled against Japan’s bowling, managing just 129. Nepal’s spin attack, led by Lamichhane and Rajbanshi, is significantly stronger. If Afghanistan’s young batters can’t handle the spin, they could struggle to post a competitive total.
2. Powerplay Battle
Nepal’s explosive openers against Afghanistan’s new-ball bowlers will set the tone. If Nepal score 50+ in the powerplay, they’ll be in command.
3. Afghanistan’s Spin vs Nepal’s Middle Order
Afghanistan’s spinners, particularly Kharoti and Momand, will look to exploit the conditions. Nepal’s middle order, featuring Paudel and Airee, has the experience to handle spin, but they’ll need to be watchful.
4. Toss and Conditions
The toss could be decisive. Batting first has been the preferred option at this venue, and the team that sets a target will have the advantage.
5. Experience vs Youth
Afghanistan have a young, inexperienced squad. Nepal have a settled, experienced T20 side. In a pressure situation, experience often wins.
Our Prediction
Nepal to win. They have the more settled squad, better recent T20 form, and a batting line-up that can handle Afghanistan’s spin attack. Afghanistan’s batting looked vulnerable against Japan, and Nepal’s bowlers are a significant step up in quality.
Win Probability:
- Nepal: 65%
- Afghanistan: 35%
Score Prediction
- Nepal: 150-170 (if batting first)
- Afghanistan: 120-140 (if batting first)
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Key Battles to Watch
1. Kushal Bhurtel vs Nangeyalia Kharoti
Bhurtel’s aggressive approach at the top of the order will be tested against Kharoti’s spin. If Kharoti can dismiss Bhurtel early, Afghanistan’s chances improve significantly.
2. Darwish Rasooli vs Sandeep Lamichhane
Rasooli’s captaincy and batting will be crucial for Afghanistan. Lamichhane’s leg-spin is Nepal’s biggest weapon. This battle could decide the match.
3. Dipendra Singh Airee vs Arab Gul Momand
Airee’s all-round skills against Momand’s leg-spin will be a fascinating contest. Airee has the technique to play spin, but Momand’s variations make him difficult to handle.
4. Ismat Alam vs Karan KC
Alam’s power-hitting against KC’s death bowling could be crucial in the final overs. If Alam can capitalize on any loose bowling, Afghanistan could post a competitive total.
5. Rohit Paudel vs Karim Janat
Paudel’s middle-order stability against Janat’s all-round skills will be a key battle in the middle overs.
Betting Tips & Analysis
Match Winner Market
| Outcome | Odds | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal to Win | 1.55 | Favorites due to settled squad and recent form |
| Afghanistan to Win | 2.35 | Capable of upsetting if their spinners fire |
Betting Tip: Back Nepal to Win. Their experience and form make them the safer bet.
Top Batsman Market
| Team | Player | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal | Kushal Bhurtel | 3.50 |
| Nepal | Rohit Paudel | 4.00 |
| Nepal | Dipendra Singh Airee | 4.50 |
| Afghanistan | Darwish Rasooli | 5.00 |
| Afghanistan | Najibullah Zadran | 6.00 |
Betting Tip: Kushal Bhurtel is a strong pick for top batsman, given his explosive form.
Top Bowler Market
| Team | Player | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal | Sandeep Lamichhane | 3.50 |
| Afghanistan | Nangeyalia Kharoti | 4.00 |
| Nepal | Karan KC | 4.50 |
| Afghanistan | Arab Gul Momand | 5.00 |
| Nepal | Lalit Rajbanshi | 5.50 |
Betting Tip: Sandeep Lamichhane is a solid choice for top bowler, given his record and the spin-friendly conditions.
Total Runs Markets
| Market | Prediction | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Over/Under 140 Runs (1st Innings) | Over 140 | Batting-friendly pitch, short boundaries |
| Powerplay Score (First 6 Overs) | Over 40 | Explosive openers on both sides |
| Total Sixes | Over 6 | Big hitters like Bhurtel, Airee, Alam |
Player Prop Bets
| Prop Bet | Recommendation | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Kushal Bhurtel Total Runs – Over 25.5 | Yes | Explosive opener in excellent form |
| Darwish Rasooli Total Runs – Over 20.5 | Yes | Key batter for Afghanistan |
| Sandeep Lamichhane – Over 1.5 Wickets | Yes | Spin-friendly conditions |
| Nangeyalia Kharoti – Over 1.5 Wickets | Yes | Afghanistan’s key bowler |
Toss Prediction
Team winning the toss will bat first. The batting-first advantage at this venue makes this the preferred option.
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Dream11 Fantasy Team Prediction
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Captain | Kushal Bhurtel | Nepal |
| Vice Captain | Sandeep Lamichhane | Nepal |
| Wicketkeeper | Aasif Sheikh | Nepal |
| Wicketkeeper | Mohammad Ishaq | Afghanistan |
| Batter | Rohit Paudel | Nepal |
| Batter | Darwish Rasooli | Afghanistan |
| Batter | Najibullah Zadran | Afghanistan |
| All-rounder | Dipendra Singh Airee | Nepal |
| All-rounder | Ismat Alam | Afghanistan |
| Bowler | Nangeyalia Kharoti | Afghanistan |
| Bowler | Karan KC | Nepal |
Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Choices
| Choice | Captain | Vice Captain | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Option 1 | Kushal Bhurtel | Sandeep Lamichhane | Both are match-winners |
| Option 2 | Dipendra Singh Airee | Nangeyalia Kharoti | Airee for all-round contribution, Kharoti for wickets |
| Option 3 | Rohit Paudel | Arab Gul Momand | Paudel for batting, Momand for spin |
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Broadcast Guide
| Region | TV | Streaming |
|---|---|---|
| India | Sony Sports Network | SonyLIV |
| Japan | Local broadcasters | Various platforms |
| Worldwide | Check local listings | Various platforms |
Match Timings (Important for Bettors)
| Time Zone | Match Start |
|---|---|
| LOCAL (Nisshin) | 2:00 PM |
| GMT | 5:00 AM |
| IST (India) | 10:30 AM |
| AEST (Australia) | 3:00 PM |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What time does the Afghanistan vs Nepal match start?
A: The match starts on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 10:30 AM IST, 5:00 AM GMT, and 2:00 PM LOCAL.
Q2: Where is the match being played?
A: The match will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan.
Q3: Who is the captain of Afghanistan?
A: Darwish Rasooli is the captain of Afghanistan.
Q4: Who is the captain of Nepal?
A: Dipendra Singh Airee is the captain of Nepal.
Q5: What is the head-to-head record between Afghanistan and Nepal in T20Is?
A: Nepal have won the only T20I played between the two teams.
Q6: Where can I watch the match live?
A: The match will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network and streamed on SonyLIV in India.
Q7: Which team is favourite to win this match?
A: Based on squad experience and recent form, Nepal are the favourites.
Q8: How do I get a Saffronexch ID?
A: Visit the Saffronexch ID page to register and get your unique ID.
Q9: Does Saffronexch offer live betting?
A: Yes. Visit Saffronexch Cricket Betting for live markets.
Q10: Can I bet on fantasy cricket at Saffronexch?
A: Yes. Visit Fantasy Sports Betting for details.
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
The Group A clash between Afghanistan and Nepal at Korogi Sports Park promises to be a fascinating contest. Nepal enter as slight favourites, but Afghanistan’s young squad has the talent to spring a surprise, especially with their spin attack.
Key Takeaways for Bettors
- Nepal are the favourites based on squad experience and recent T20 form.
- Spin will play a crucial role at Korogi Sports Park, with 60% of wickets expected to fall to spinners.
- Kushal Bhurtel is a top contender for the highest run-scorer, given his explosive form.
- Sandeep Lamichhane is Nepal’s key bowler, with 142 T20I wickets to his name.
- Afghanistan’s batting looked vulnerable against Japan and could struggle against Nepal’s spin attack.
- The toss could be decisive, with batting first being the preferred option.
Final Prediction
Nepal to Win – Nepal have the more settled squad, better recent form, and a batting line-up that can handle Afghanistan’s spin attack. Afghanistan’s batting looked vulnerable against Japan, and Nepal’s bowlers are a significant step up in quality. However, if Afghanistan’s spinners can weave their magic, an upset is not out of the question.
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This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The predictions and betting tips provided are based on analysis of available data and historical trends. They do not guarantee any specific outcome. Betting involves financial risk, and you should never bet more than you can afford to lose.
