The Indian women’s cricket team kicked off its Asian Games 2026 campaign with a commanding eight-wicket win over hosts Japan at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin. It was a stroll in the park for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side as they bowled out Japan for a paltry 57 before chasing down the target in just five overs. However, ahead of the semi-finals, concerns have been raised over the condition of the cricket venue at Aichi-Nagoya 2026.
The conditions in and around the venue are poor, according to NDTV sources. India will now take on Bangladesh in the semi-final on Sunday at the same venue, while Pakistan and Sri Lanka will face off in the other semi-final.
Ikram said the upcoming editions of the Games in Doha (2030) and Riyadh (2034) will have an Athletes Village.
The OCA said that while such a facility would be preferable, organisers also needed flexibility. But, number two, we also have to be flexible,” OCA Director General Husain A H Z Al-Musallam said at a press conference. He said organisers needed to consider the circumstances of the host country and plans for facilities after the Games, rather than automatically constructing a dedicated village.
“We wish that we have an athlete village, number one. “Yes, an Athletes Village with a five-star (rating) is good but at the end of the day we need to be practical.
