The India-Pakistan rivalry once again provided plenty of drama as the two sides faced each other in the gold medal match of the Asian Games in Japan Men’s 2026. With the prestigious gold medal at stake, India were looking to defend a strong total after being asked to bat first. Pakistan, meanwhile, began their chase with the hope of producing a memorable victory, but India kept finding ways to put pressure on their opponents. One of the key moments came early in the Pakistan innings when Washington Sundar produced a stunning piece of fielding to send Maaz Sadaqat back to the pavilion.

Washington Sundar exhibits his fielding brilliance

The dismissal came on the very first delivery of the seventh over, with Axar Patel bowling to Sadaqat. The left-arm spinner drifted the ball across the batter from around the wicket, prompting Sadaqat to get down and attempt a sweep towards the backward square-leg region.

The shot appeared to have enough elevation to clear the infield, but Sundar had other plans. Positioned in the deep, Sundar immediately moved to his left and kept his eyes firmly on the ball. He completed the catch but quickly realised that his momentum was carrying him towards the boundary.

Showing excellent awareness under pressure, Sundar released the ball into the air before crossing the boundary line. He then turned back, regained his position and completed the catch safely. It was a brilliant example of presence of mind, athleticism and awareness on the field.

The catch initially needed to be checked, but the replay confirmed that Sundar had executed the difficult effort perfectly. Sadaqat had to make his way back after scoring 23 runs off 18 deliveries, leaving Pakistan with another wicket to rebuild around.

Here’s the video:

Brilliant catch from Washington Sundar as Pakistan go deep in trouble in the chase 🔥

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India clinch Gold with thrilling win over Pakistan

Sadaqat’s dismissal proved to be another setback for Pakistan during their chase. India had posted 211/6 after an explosive batting display, with Abhishek Sharma smashing 61 off 28 balls and Tilak Varma contributing a rapid 51 off 22 deliveries. Shivam Dube also provided valuable late runs with a quick 27.

Pakistan fought hard in reply, with Hasan Nawaz producing a spectacular 96 off 51 balls. His innings kept the chase alive and ensured that India could not afford to relax at any stage. However, India’s bowling attack continued to pick up wickets at important moments.

Axar, Sundar and Shivam Dube each made significant contributions with the ball. Pakistan eventually finished on 192/6 from their 20 overs, falling 19 runs short of India’s total. The victory secured the gold medal for India in the Asian Games men’s cricket final.

Also READ: Clinical Bangladesh thrash Sri Lanka to secure Bronze Medal in Asian Games 2026