AFG vs NEP Match Prediction: Subcontinental rivals Afghanistan (AFG) and Nepal (NEP) prepare to go head-to-head in the 4th Match (Group A) of the Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket tournament at the Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan.
Afghanistan opened their Asian Games campaign on a high note, defending a modest 129 to defeat hosts Japan by 48 runs. A victory tomorrow against a spirited Nepal side will solidify Afghanistan’s berth in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Nepal enters the multi-sport event determined to secure vital group-stage points.
Match Details
- Match: Afghanistan vs Nepal, 4th Match, Group A
- Series: Asian Games 2026
- Date: Tomorrow
- Time: 2:00 PM LOCAL | 5:00 AM GMT | 10:30 AM IST
- Venue: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin, Japan
- Live Streaming & Broadcast (India): SonyLIV (Streaming), Sony Sports Network (TV)
Match Preview
Afghanistan
Captained by Darwish Rasooli, the Afghan side boasts solid depth despite fielding a young squad. Top-order contributions from Mohammad Akram, Hassan Eisakhil, and skipper Rasooli provide a steady foundation. Experienced all-rounders like Karim Janat and Ismat Alam add crucial balance to both facets of the game. In the bowling department, left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharoti spearheads an effective attack supported by Faridoon Dawoodzai and Arab Gul Momand.
Nepal
Led by star all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee, Nepal brings a highly experienced squad featuring Aasif Sheikh, Kushal Bhurtel, Rohit Paudel, and Kushal Malla. The middle order benefits from dynamic power-hitting, while all-round contributions from Gulbadin Naib-like options like Sompal Kami and Karan KC give them depth. Nepal’s primary strength lies in its spin department, guided by leg-spin wizard Sandeep Lamichhane and left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi.
Pitch & Weather Report
Pitch Report (Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin)
The surface at Korogi Sports Park offers a fair contest. The fresh pitch displays good bounce for seamers in the opening overs, but as the ball softens, spinners come into play with notable turn. Given that the average first-innings total hovers around 130–145 on this ground, captains winning the toss are expected to opt to bat first and defend on a surface that slows down later in the day.
Weather Report
The weather in Nisshin, Japan, is forecasted to be pleasant with partly cloudy skies during match hours. Temperatures will stay around 22°C to 25°C with moderate humidity and low chances of rain, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted T20 contest.
Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan
Mohammad Akram, Hassan Eisakhil, Darwish Rasooli (c), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Karim Janat, Ismat Alam, Najibullah Zadran, Nangeyalia Kharoti, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Arab Gul Momand, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
Nepal
Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee (c), Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi.
Key Fantasy Picks & Players to Watch
- Nangeyalia Kharoti (AFG): The left-arm spinner starred with 3/19 in the opening fixture and can dismantle middle-order setups.
- Dipendra Singh Airee (NEP): A key player for Nepal, offering explosive finishing capability down the order and handy off-spin in the middle overs.
- Sandeep Lamichhane (NEP): Nepal’s prime wicket-taking weapon, capable of exploiting the gripping surface at Korogi Sports Park.
- Karim Janat (AFG): Provides vital all-round balance with reliable medium-pace bowling and middle-order hitting.
AFG vs NEP Match Prediction
Nepal presents a well-balanced team capable of beating any side on their day. However, Afghanistan’s recent victory, familiarity with Japanese conditions, and deep spin attack give them an advantage. Afghanistan enters as the favorite to clinch victory and guarantee a spot in the quarter-finals.
