On September 22, 2026, India defeated Japan by two runs in the first-ever international cricket match between the two countries in a historic one-off five-over Twenty20 International in Sano. Aakash Chopra criticized the playing conditions, claiming that the use of such pitches will hinder the sport’s globalization. Japan scored 30 for 3 in their innings, while India scored 32 for 4. The pitch on which the match was played raised serious concerns among cricket commentators about its appropriateness for international competition.
Shreyas Iyer, who scored 16 runs from 12 balls, was named Player of the Match. On a pitch that posed significant difficulties for batsmen during the match, the Indian batter’s performance stood out.
Aakash Chopra criticized the playing conditions, claiming that the use of such pitches will hinder the sport’s globalization. In terms of the pitch, it is really difficult. Because of how the game was played and how rapidly it began and concluded, it was virtually a blur. However, if you want to bring international cricket to far-flung places, matches cannot be played on these kinds of pitches. Better surfaces are required for the game. You don’t have a super sopper or the capacity to cover it, so even when it isn’t raining, the ground isn’t drying up. It simply isn’t good enough if you’re playing an international match here. Everyone will have to overcome this obstacle, Aakash Chopra stated on his YouTube channel.
Aakash Chopra criticized the playing conditions
The outfield proved to be unbearably slow throughout the game, and the pitch was noted as slow and gripping. Even though there was no rainfall, the surface seemed to hold onto too much moisture, which usually happens when groundskeeping tools like super soppers or sufficient ground covers are not available. These elements came together to produce playing conditions that, in Aakash Chopra’s opinion, were below international standards.
Iyer noted that the balls were turning square after the game, emphasizing how challenging it was for the batters to score runs.Turning square, of course. To be honest, it was a pretty challenging wicket to bat on. We also noticed that the openers, who are accustomed to regularly scoring runs, were unable to gage the speed of the spin. As soon as I got in, I realized how crucial it was for me to take singles and doubles and rotate the strike as much as possible,” Iyer stated.
Also Read: India Beat Japan by 2 Runs in Thriller
According to Aakash Chopra, India suffered one of the greatest upsets in sports history despite being understandably a little complacent going into the match. You honestly believed that we were finished at one point. We thought it would be enjoyable and lighthearted, and we would simply laugh and giggle our way through it. It makes sense and is fair that the Indian squad appeared to have comparable goals and attitudes. Although I’m not a big admirer of 5-over games, Chopra claimed it was acceptable in the given situation.
