India vs Japan T20I Postponed by Typhoon Dujuan

Typhoon Dujuan’s heavy rain disrupted India’s final training session before their first-ever T20I against Japan, leaving the team unsure of pitch conditions. The match, scheduled at Sano International Cricket Ground, faces uncertainty as weather warnings continue.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 21 Sep 2026 13:14:24 GMT

India’s historic first‑ever T20 International against Japan has been thrown into doubt after Typhoon Dujuan slammed the Sano International Cricket Ground with heavy rain and strong winds. The storm washed out the team’s final practice session, leaving players and coaching staff uncertain about the pitch and weather conditions.

What Happened

On the eve of the match, Typhoon Dujuan moved across the Pacific, bringing torrential rain and gale‑force winds to eastern Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued warnings for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and landslide risks in the Kanto region, including Tokyo. Over 300 mm of rain had already fallen in parts of eastern Japan since Saturday, and authorities warned that further rainfall could trigger flash floods.

India’s squad, led by captain Shreyas Iyer, was preparing for the game at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture. The team’s final training session was cancelled when the storm hit, preventing players from assessing the wicket and the impact of the weather on the pitch. Iyer expressed uncertainty about the playing conditions, noting that the team had “not seen much of the conditions or the wicket.”

Background: The Significance of the Match

This T20I marks the first time India and Japan have faced each other in men's international cricket. It also commemorates 75 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries. For India, the match is a final preparation before the Asian Games campaign that begins on September 28, where the team is the reigning T20 World Cup champion. Japan, ranked 41st in T20Is, sees the game as an opportunity to gain experience against a top‑level side.

Japan’s captain, Kendel Kadowaki‑Fleming, emphasized that the team wants more than just a ceremonial encounter; they aim to test themselves against a strong opponent and showcase their growing cricketing standards.

Impact on the Asian Games and Other Events

The typhoon’s effects are not limited to cricket. The equestrian events at the Asian Games in Aichi‑Nagoya were postponed for safety reasons, and officials warned that the heavy rainfall could intensify, potentially causing flash floods. The broader weather situation has raised concerns about the safety of athletes and spectators across the region.

What Happens Next?

As of now, the match’s status remains uncertain. The Japan Meteorological Agency continues to monitor the storm’s path, and the BCCI has not issued a definitive decision. If conditions improve, the game could proceed as scheduled on Tuesday. However, if the typhoon persists or worsens, the match may be postponed or relocated.

India’s coaching staff is closely monitoring updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency and the BCCI. They are also preparing contingency plans in case the match is rescheduled, including adjusting training routines and logistics for the Asian Games.

Key facts

• Typhoon Dujuan disrupted India’s final training session
• First-ever T20I between India and Japan
• Japan’s captain aims to test his side
• Asian Games equestrian events postponed
• India’s readiness for Asian Games depends on the match

Why it matters

The match is pivotal for India’s preparation ahead of the Asian Games and marks a historic first encounter with Japan, reflecting the growing ties between the two cricketing nations.

Frequently asked questions

Will the match be played?

The BCCI has not yet confirmed a decision; it depends on weather updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency.

What is the status of the Asian Games equestrian events?

They have been postponed for safety reasons due to the typhoon.

How many players are in India’s squad?

India’s squad for the T20I includes 15 players, led by captain Shreyas Iyer.

What is Japan’s ranking in T20Is?

Japan is ranked 41st in the ICC T20I rankings.

Sources

• [1] dnaindia.com — originally reported as “India vs Japan T20I In Doubt? Heavy rain from Typhoon Dujuan hits Sano ground”