Between September 28th and October 5th the Japan men competed against the Philippines, South Korea and Indonesia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier B 2024, emerging victorious with a clean sweep. Three of the Sharks star players – Kendel, Ben and Ibby – were part of the winning squad.

Kendel, captaining Japan, was the tournament`s top run scorer with 275 runs in 6 innings, and a strike rate of 136. Kendel was also awarded player of the match in 3 of Japan‘s wins and named the tournament`s Most Valuable Player.

Ibby and Ben, being all-rounders, contributed with both bat and ball. Ibrahim scored 41 runs over 5 innings (SR 107) and 6 wickets in 5 innings (bowling economy 3.27), Ben hit 37 runs in 2 innings (strike rate 154) and took 7 wickets over 4 innings (economy 4.50).

Long-time lynchpin of the Sharks batting lineup, Dhugal, also travelled with the Japan squad as a team official. 

You can read more about Japan`s performance at the tournament on the JCA website.

Well done Sharkies and congratulations Japan – we will all be cheering you on in the Asia/EAP Regional Final!

Japan Team Image courtesy of the Japan Cricket Association, 2024,  https://cricket.or.jp/en/