In the recent years, fans have witnessed toughest rivalry in India and Pakistan matches which are only played in major ICC tournaments. However 2026 will bring in a new opportunity for both the teams as they are likely to meet in Japan for the upcoming Asian Games.

Cricket will be returning in to the prestigious Asian Games in 2026 and it is confirmed by 41st AINAGOC board meeting on April 28, 2023 at Nagoya City Hall, Japan. The 2026 Asian Games will be taking place in Aichi Province. With India and Pakistan both participating it will be important to note that the possibility of the match between the two nations. The Asian Games 2026 will be held in Aichi and Nagoya Provinces of Japan from 19 September to 4 October 2026.

In the wake of horrific Pahalgam Terror Attack, earlier reports suggested that BCCI had already informed ICC about not putting India and Pakistan together in the same group for upcoming tournament. So with the tensions rising it will be crucial to see if India-Pakistan matches will be held in future or not.

The 2026 Asian Games will also provide a solid preparation for the team eyeing the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics where cricket will be making a debut in the Olympics. It is also important to note that International Cricket Council (ICC) will recognize all these cricket matches at the Asian Games with international status.