The final of the men’s cricket event at the 2026 Asian Games is set to be played between Pakistan and India, but the chances of rain during the match have also increased.
In view of the threat of rain, the tournament organizers have clarified the rules.
Unlike the 2023 Asian Games, where the higher-ranked team was declared the winner if a match was abandoned, this will not be the case under the 2026 rules if the final cannot be completed due to rain.
According to the new rules, if the final cannot be completed, both Pakistan and India will jointly be declared the winners of the gold medal.
However, if rain interrupts the match after it has started, at least five overs of play in the second innings will be required to produce a result. The decision will then be made under the Duckworth-Lewis (DLS) method.
According to the tournament schedule, no reserve day has been allocated for the final, meaning a final decision will have to be made on the scheduled day itself.
The decision is being viewed in terms of promoting sportsmanship and a level playing field between the two Asian rivals, allowing both teams to receive equal honours.
Cricket fans will now be monitoring the weather conditions closely as Pakistan and India prepare for the final. If sufficient play is possible, the match will be decided on the field, with the DLS method available if rain reduces the number of overs.
If continuous rain prevents the final from being completed under the required conditions, Pakistan and India will jointly receive the gold medal according to the 2026 tournament regulations.
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