Abhishek, Tilak and spinners secure gold for India at Asian Games again

India successfully defended their Asian Games men's cricket gold medal with a 19-run victory over rivals Pakistan in Nisshin. Batting first, India posted a total of 211 for 6, driven by quick half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma, who hit 61, and Tilak Varma, who added 51 not out. In response, Pakistan were restricted to 192 for 6 in their 20 overs.

Pakistan mounted a spirited chase behind a blistering 51-ball 96 from Hasan Nawaz, who brought them close after surviving an early dropped catch. However, tight death bowling from Jasprit Bumrah and two wickets apiece from Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Shivam Dube ensured India held on to claim the gold, leaving Pakistan with silver.