Captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming took home the Most Valuable Player award after Japan beat the Philippines by 53 runs at Charles Amini Park.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Japan made a watchful start before accelerating rapidly when the captain arrived.

Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake made 41 in a support role in a 75-run partnership from 58-balls.

Kadowaki-Fleming was the main instigator as he struck four sixes on his way to a 37-ball 60 which set the team up for a free-hitting finish.

Ibrahim Takahashi was the player who maintained the momentum. His 31 from 13 balls included three sixes and helped the team to 97 from the second ten overs to finish 166 for seven at the break.

The Japanese spinners were key to containing the Philippines batters, and Piyush Kumbhare bowled with excellent control to concede just eight runs from his first three overs, while Reo Sakurano broke the opening partnership.

The left-arm spinner would eventually end with figures of two for 11 with only Jordan Alegre taking up the attack in a 29-ball 33.

Japan we’re lovely in the field, cutting off boundaries and holding some good catches as the Philippines eventually finished 113 for five from their 20 overs. 

Speaking after the match, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming said: “It was good to get a few out of the middle today, and of course, I’m pleased with how the boys played. Another big game tomorrow and this helps us go into that with a bit of confidence.”