NEW DELHI: The Indian men’s cricket team secured a hard-fought 23-run victory over Nepal in a thrilling Quarterfinal match at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. Following the win, Indian skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad acknowledged that adapting to the challenging playing conditions had been a learning experience for his team, which was playing in such conditions for the first time.
Speaking to the press after the match, the 26-year-old captain expressed that Nepal had an advantage on the tricky pitch at the Pingfeng Campus Cricket Field since they had already played three matches there.
Asian Games Day 10
Ruturaj Gaikwad commended his team’s performance, considering their unfamiliarity with such conditions. He stated, “The wicket was a little tricky. I think Nepal is used to it. They played 2-3 games here. It was our first game, so it took a little time to understand. But, given that we are not really used to playing in these kinds of conditions, I think for a first game we played really well.”

Ruturaj also had words of praise for Nepal’s cricketing prowess, highlighting their strong performance in the Asia Cup. He expressed confidence that Nepal’s cricket side would continue to improve in the coming years, ultimately becoming a formidable team.
“They have played Asia Cup with main sides as well and competed really well. So, I think they were coming off with really good confidence, and I feel that in the coming years, they will have a really good side,” Ruturaj Gaikwad remarked.

India advanced directly to the quarterfinals due to their superior ICC ranking. Following their 23-run victory over Nepal, the Indian team has secured a place in the semifinal match.
In the Quarterfinal, India chose to bat first, with Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s exceptional performance during the powerplay, contributing a stunning century in the first inning. However, aside from Jaiswal, no other batsmen managed to reach a half-century. India posted a total of 202/4 in their first inning.
In the second inning, the Indian bowlers, led by Avesh Khan and Ravi Bishnoi, made a significant impact, each claiming three wickets. Arshdeep Singh also made crucial contributions with two wickets during his four-over spell, while Sai Kishore secured one wicket. Nepal managed to reach a total of 179/9 in their second inning.
With this victory, India have secured a spot in the semifinals of the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou. Their next match is scheduled for Friday as they continue their pursuit of success in the tournament.
(With ANI inputs)