Pakistan secured a spot in the men's cricket final at the 2026 Asian Games by defeating Bangladesh by six wickets in a rain-affected semi-final at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan, on October 1, 2026. The match was reduced to 13 overs per side due to a wet outfield.
Bangladesh, batting first, posted 111 for 7 in their allotted 13 overs. Towhid Hridoy was the standout performer, scoring 42 runs off 25 balls. Pakistan's bowling attack was led by Sufiyan Muqeem, who took 3 wickets for 26 runs, and Arafat Minhas, who claimed 2 wickets for 23 runs.
In response, Pakistan chased down the target in 11.3 overs, finishing at 112 for 4. Abdul Samad played a pivotal role, remaining unbeaten with 30 runs off 15 balls, while Hasan Nawaz contributed 27 not out. Their partnership ensured Pakistan's victory with nine balls to spare.
This win propels Pakistan into the gold-medal match scheduled for October 3, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh will compete in the bronze-medal match on the same day.
The semi-final was marked by challenging conditions, with the wet outfield leading to a reduction in overs. Despite this, both teams delivered commendable performances, with Pakistan ultimately emerging victorious to advance to the final.