India Likely Playing XI for One-Off T20I vs Japan: Check Predicted 11

Cricket enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation as the Indian men's team is set to face Japan in a historic one-off T20 International (T20I) tomorrow, Tuesday, September 22, 2026. The match, dubbed the Suzuki Cup, will be played at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi, Japan, commencing at 9:30 AM IST (1:00 PM local time). This encounter marks a significant milestone, being the first-ever men's international cricket fixture between India and Japan, and also forms part of the 'Sport 75' initiative celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Sano Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for India vs Japan One-Off T20I.

The highly anticipated fixture also serves as a vital preparatory match for both sides ahead of the men's cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. Reigning T20 World Champions India, led by Shreyas Iyer, will be looking to fine-tune their strategies and combinations, while hosts Japan will relish the opportunity to test their mettle against a top-ranked cricketing nation.

India's Squad and Potential Playing XI

India has named a strong 14-member squad for this tour, featuring a blend of explosive batsmen, versatile all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack. Shreyas Iyer will lead the side, with Tilak Varma deputising as vice-captain. The team's recent form, including a 3-0 T20I series sweep against Afghanistan, suggests a confident unit.

Based on recent performances and squad composition, here is India's likely playing XI for the Suzuki Cup:

• Abhishek Sharma: The dynamic opener has been in scintillating form and is expected to provide an aggressive start at the top.
• Sanju Samson (wk): With his clean hitting and wicket-keeping abilities, Samson is a strong contender to open alongside Sharma and bolster the middle order if needed.
• Ishan Kishan (wk): A fearless wicketkeeper-batsman, Kishan's aggressive approach at the top provides quick starts.
• Shreyas Iyer (c): The skipper will anchor the innings and lead from the front, bringing his experience and aggressive stroke play to the crucial No. 3 spot.
• Tilak Varma (vc): The vice-captain's consistent performances make him a vital cog in the middle order, capable of accelerating the scoring rate.
• Shivam Dube: His powerful hitting and medium-pace bowling make him an ideal all-rounder for the T20 format.
• Washington Sundar: The off-spinning all-rounder could come into the XI, offering control and an alternative spin option.
• Axar Patel: The left-arm orthodox spinner and handy lower-order batsman will provide crucial balance to the team.
• Ravi Bishnoi: His wrist-spin variations will be key in picking up wickets in the middle overs and containing the opposition.
• Jasprit Bumrah: The premier paceman will lead the fast bowling attack, bringing his death-over mastery and wicket-taking ability.
• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer will complement Bumrah, providing variety and crucial breakthroughs with the new ball and at the death. Indian Men's Cricket Team Hit by Last-Minute Jersey Delay Ahead of Asian Games 2026 Departure: Report.

Japan's Challenge For Indian Team

Japan, led by Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, will feature a squad looking to make a strong statement against their formidable opponents. Key players for Japan include their leading run-scorer Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and right-arm spinner Ibrahim Takahashi.

This inaugural T20I promises to be a captivating encounter, offering both teams a valuable platform ahead of their Asian Games campaigns and marking a new chapter in the cricketing ties between India and Japan.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 21, 2026 02:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).