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Intermittent moderate to heavy rain in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture has disrupted outdoor events at the 2026 Asian Games, forcing organizers to adjust schedules and leaving some cricket matches to be decided under tournament rules.
India advanced to the men’s cricket semifinals after rain washed out its quarterfinal against Afghanistan without a ball being bowled. Under the competition’s rules for an abandoned match, India progressed on the basis of its higher ranking, ending Afghanistan’s campaign. ICC
Hockey has also been affected. India’s final men’s pool match against Bangladesh started 30 minutes late, while Pakistan played Oman in heavy rain. With no cover over the stands at the Green Hockey Stadium, some media personnel watched the Pakistan-Oman match from the media center.
The disruptions did not prevent India and Pakistan from reaching the semifinals, where they are scheduled to face each other. Japan’s match against South Korea, which would determine which team joined India, Pakistan and Malaysia in the last four, was also delayed on the final day of men’s pool play.
The continuing rain has raised concerns about the remaining cricket schedule, including the medal matches. Further washouts could leave tournament rules, rather than results on the field, to determine which teams advance.
Wet weather has also complicated travel and coordination for athletes and officials. With events spread across multiple venues, further disruptions could make it harder for organizers to keep competitions on schedule.
Competition has continued despite the rain. By the 10th day of the Games, China had passed 200 medals, reaching a reported total of 220, including 126 golds and 51 bronzes. Host Japan stood at 144 medals, including 39 golds and 64 silvers. India was 12th with 39 medals: four golds, 17 silvers and 18 bronzes.
