India and Japan set for first‑ever T20I

India and Japan will play their first‑ever international cricket match later this month, as the BCCI announced a one‑off men’s T20I scheduled for September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi. The fixture marks the beginning of celebrations for the 75th anniversary of India‑Japan Diplomatic Relations and serves as the inaugural event of “Sport 75,” an initiative designed to enhance sporting cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement stems from a summit between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with both governments aiming to expand cultural and athletic exchange. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia called the match a historic moment that introduces Indian cricket to new territory and supports the sport’s growth in East Asia.

Japan Cricket Association CEO Naoki Miyaji described hosting the reigning world champions as a landmark occasion and encouraged local fans to embrace what promises to be a memorable event.