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Direct entry sets up a potential India-Pakistan semifinal
The Hindu··24 Jul
A potential India-Pakistan men's semi-final and a possible women's final clash both remain live possibilities depending on how the preliminary rounds play out. Direct quarterfinal entry gives both defending champions extra rest before knockout rounds begin. As cricket cements its place at the Asiad, what format changes would help emerging cricket nations close the gap with established sides?
Prism
What It Means For You
- Cricket fans get a clearer picture of India's route to the podium months before the Asian Games begin.
- A direct quarterfinal spot means less risk of an early exit in the group stage for both India teams.
- An India-Pakistan clash remains possible in either the men's or women's competition depending on results.
What's Happening
- India and Pakistan received direct quarterfinal entry in men's and women's cricket at the Asian Games.
- The Indian women's team opens against Japan; the men's competition runs September 24 to October 1 in Aichi.
- Shreyas Iyer captains the men's side and Harmanpreet Kaur leads the women's team.
Cricket's Growing Place At The Asiad
- This is the fourth time cricket features at the Asian Games, after the 2010, 2014 and 2023 editions.
- The men's event features 10 teams split across two preliminary groups before the knockout stage.
- Both competitions will be played in the T20 format at Korogi Athletic Park.
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