India’s Abhishek Sharma, right, celebrates with wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, centre, and Tilak Varma (PTI Photo)
Despite India putting up a formidable total, Pakistan made full use of a good batting surface and kept the chase alive deep into the innings, eventually finishing on 192 for six. We scored 200 in the first innings and thought the second innings could be difficult for Pakistan, but the wicket was good and they also batted well. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news , check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule .
Samson said the nature of the contest made India’s gold even more rewarding. That makes it all the more satisfying, and we are all happy,” he said. Samson acknowledged the significance of an India-Pakistan final on the Asian Games stage, but said the players focused on responding to the demands of the match once play began. But once the game starts, we play according to the demands of the match conditions and match situations,” he said.
Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines “Finally, we got to play a good match. Everyone got to see a good final. “We did not get the gold on a platter. We had to really work hard for it. “Definitely, it’s a big occasion and a big opportunity for all of us to represent our country in an Asian Games final. “That is what happens before and after the game. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.
India beat their arch-rivals by 19 runs on Saturday to successfully defend their men’s cricket gold at the continental showpiece. India posted 211 for six after half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma , but Pakistan refused to let the final become a one-sided contest.
India’s Asian Games gold medal did not come easily, according to wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson , who credited the presence of experienced players for helping the team navigate the pressure of a high-stakes final against Pakistan . Samson said the experience within the squad proved crucial, particularly during a tournament where rain had repeatedly disrupted practice and match schedules. We knew how to manage our energy, how to keep ourselves motivated and focused even when practices were not happening and matches were not happening,” Samson said after the match.
“We had a very experienced team. That’s where the experience of experienced players comes in. India opted to send their regular T20 contingent to the Asian Games, and Samson felt having the ‘A’ team gave them both the quality and composure required for the occasion. “Bringing the ‘A’ team really helped, and that’s what happened against Pakistan in the final. I think it was a proper game for everyone,” he added.