India clinched a thrilling two runs victory versus Japan during the one off T20I at the Sano International Cricket Ground, Sano Kanto. The game was reduced to five over a side contest due to wet outfield conditions. The visitors became the first team to register 200 wins in T20 Internationals, including super over victories.  

Japan put pressure on India, spinners dominate in the middle  

India opted to bat first as the game was reduced to five overs a side contest. Indeed, an iconic start for team Japan, snapping both India openers within no time. Further, at 14/3 in 2.4 overs the Japanese boys were elated, snapping up key wickets of Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson followed by Ishan Kishan. Spinners Charlie Hara-Hinze, Ibrahim Takahashi and Benjamin Ito-Davis were spot on with the ball, sticking to their line and lengths making it difficult for the batters to score big runs. The hosts were very competitive in the middle, giving more than their hundred percent on field.

Not an easy surface to bat on as the ball turned from the very first delivery, but skipper Shreyas Iyer scored 16(12) helping India reach 32/4 in five overs. Japan was splendid with the ball, not allowing India the free will to hit any maximums out of the park. Charlie ended with 2/17 in his two overs.

Ishan Kishan’s instrumental run-out

Japan’s opening batter Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake was run out during the first over itself as Ishan Kishan’s excellent throw from the deep was enough to send him back to the pavilion. At this stage Japan was 2/1 in 0.5 overs as Axar Patel’s deliveries were difficult to read.

Washington Sundar grabs two wickets, India seal the deal

India held their nerves and eventually won the contest by two runs. The visitors also used their spinners tactfully, as Washington Sundar ended with 2/13 in his two overs. A low scoring thriller brought the fans on the edge of their sets, as the game went down to the wire.

Brief Scores:

India: 32/4 in 5 overs (Shreyas Iyer 16; Charlie Hara-Hinze 2/17) beat Japan: 30/3 in 5 overs (Kendel Kadowaki-Flemin 12; Washington Sundar 2/13) by two runs.