India narrowly avoided a historic upset, defeating hosts Japan by just two runs in a rain‑curtailed five‑overs‑a‑side T20 International at the Sano International Cricket Ground.

The match, delayed by nearly 2.5 hours due to a wet outfield, marked India’s 200th T20I victory. Skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bat, but Japan’s spinners exploited the conditions brilliantly, restricting India to 32 for 4 in five overs.

Chasing 33 off 30 balls, Japan came agonisingly close to pulling off one of the biggest upsets in their cricketing history. Washington Sundar’s double strike halted Japan’s momentum, while Axar Patel’s tight spell ensured India held their nerve.

Japan finished at 30 for 3, falling just short of the target. Despite the loss, the spirited performance by Japan showcased their growing potential in international cricket, while India celebrated a nervy but historic milestone.

The thriller in Nagoya highlighted the unpredictability of T20 cricket and the rising competitiveness of emerging teams on the global stage.