Sano, September 22, 2026: India survived a major scare on Tuesday, edging hosts Japan by two runs in a rain-reduced one-off T20 International after umpires overturned a contentious wide decision in the final over.
The match at the Sano International Cricket Ground was reduced to five overs per side due to a wet outfield. India, after winning the toss and opting to bat, struggled on a slow, turning surface and managed 32 for four, with captain Shreyas Iyer top-scoring with 16.
Japan’s spinners exploited the conditions effectively, leaving India with a modest total to defend.
Chasing 33, Japan mounted a spirited response and reached a stage where they needed eight runs from the final over. India handed the ball to Axar Patel.
Tension rose when umpire Chris Thurgate signalled two deliveries as wides as left-hander Alexander Shirai-Patmore attempted reverse sweeps.
Patel and wicketkeeper Sanju Samson appeared to question the decision, prompting Iyer to approach square-leg umpire Chris Brown. Following a discussion between the two officials, the second wide call was overturned and the delivery was ruled legitimate.
Japan managed only a few runs from the remaining deliveries and finished on 30 for three, handing India a two-run victory.
The decision proved crucial in a match decided by a narrow margin. Had the second wide stood, Japan would have received an additional run and another delivery in their pursuit of 33.
Washington Sundar was India’s leading bowler with figures of two for 13, while Axar conceded only seven runs from his two overs. For Japan, Charlie Hara-Hinze claimed two wickets for 17 runs.
The one-off fixture was played as part of both teams’ preparations for the Asian Games.
