New Delhi, Sept. 24 -- Afghanistan began their men's cricket campaign at the Asian Games 2026 with a 48-run victory over hosts Japan in the opening Group A match at the Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday.

After Japan won the toss and elected to field, Afghanistan posted 129/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Japan were bowled out for 81 in 19.3 overs, giving Afghanistan a winning start to their campaign.

Mohammad Akram top-scored for Afghanistan with 34 off 29 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes. He added 38 runs with Karim Janat, who contributed 21 from 23 deliveries with two fours.

Akram was eventually dismissed in the 13th over, with Afghanistan at 68/3.

Captain Darwish Rasooli then made 29 off 27 balls, including four boundar...