Japan drop their first game to tournament hosts Hong Kong in their opening match in the four-team tournament.

After winning the toss and electing to field, Hon Kong opening bowler Iqra Sahar, was on fire early taking a wicket in her first, second, and third over leaving Japan in strife. Captain Mai Yanagida made a commendable effort coming in at three to steady the innings scoring 32 off 46 but unfortunately kept running out of batting partners. Hong Kong’s bowlers were too strong for Japan’s batters today, completed by captain Kary Chan taking four wickets in four balls including an innings-ending hatrick bowling Japan out for 78.

In the chase. Hong Kong knocked over the total easily in the 11th over. Japan did take one wicket however, through Shrunali Ranade making her international debut as Japan’s cap number 75. Ranade took the wicket of Mariko Hill who top scored with 40 helping to secure a nine-wicket convincing win to start the tournament in convincing fashion.

Japan will look to have a bounce back win against Tanzania tomorrow starting at 10:30 am Japan Time.

Match Schedule (Japan Time):

• Wednesday 15 November – Hong Kong vs Japan, Time 15:00
• Thursday 16 November – Tanzania vs Japan, Time 10:30
• Saturday 18 November – Nepal vs Japan, Time 10:30
• Sunday 19 November – 3rd Place Play-Off, Time 10:30
• Sunday 19 November – Final, Time 15:00

All matches will take place at Hong Kong Cricket Club and are scheduled to be live-streamed. Follow JCA and Hong Cricket Association’s official social media for further information and updates.