Japan cricketers hail 'amazing' experience playing India at Asian Games

Japan's women cricketers said they had an 'amazing' experience at the Asian Games on Friday, despite the hosts being crushed by powerhouse India in the quarter-finals. India, ranked behind only Australia and England, bowled out Japan for 57 off 19.5 overs in the Twenty20 contest. Led by opener Shafali Verma's unbeaten 40 off 15 balls, India romped to an eight-wicket victory by reaching 59-2 off just five overs. Japan have appeared in two previous Asian Games and are benefiting from a push to promote cricket in the baseball-obsessed country, where it is a minority sport. 'This opportunity was amazing, especially for me,' said Japan's Ahilya Chandel. 'Being half-Indian, it was extra special. Watching the team on TV and now being able to face them in real life has been great. 'From this game we can learn a lot about what we can work on in the future, if we get to face them again or play higher-ranked teams.' A good-size crowd of home supporters turned out to watch Japan at the Korogi Athletic Park in Nagoya. 'Playing at home was really good and special,' said Chandel. 'Friends and family came, along with supporters and our sponsors. 'There were probably fans who didn't know cricket but came to watch because it was a new sport for them. 'That's what we want as a women's cricket team, to attract Japanese people who don't know cricket.' Defending Asian Games champions India will play Bangladesh in Sunday's semi-finals and Pakistan face Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka beat Malaysia by 86 runs in the day's other quarter-final.