India have booked their place in the men's cricket gold-medal match at the Asian Games 2026 after producing a dominant performance against Sri Lanka in the second semi-final.

After setting Sri Lanka a target of 170 runs, India completely dismantled the chase, dismissing Sri Lanka for just 45 runs. The result gave India a massive victory and, more importantly, handed Sri Lanka their lowest-ever total in T20 International cricket.

Sri Lanka collapse for just 45 runs

India posted 169 runs for the loss of their wickets, setting Sri Lanka a target of 170.

However, Sri Lanka's chase quickly turned into a disaster. India's bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals, leaving the Sri Lankan batting order with no opportunity to build a partnership.

Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for just 45 runs.

Their previous lowest T20I total was 77, scored against South Africa in New York in June 2024. The 45-run total therefore represents a significant new low for Sri Lanka in the format.

India record their biggest T20I win against Sri Lanka

The collapse also resulted in India's biggest victory over Sri Lanka in terms of runs in T20I cricket.

India's bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout the innings, while Sri Lankan batters struggled to handle the Indian attack.

A target of 170 had initially looked competitive, but the quality of India's bowling turned the match into a one-sided contest.

Pakistan await India in the gold-medal match

India's victory sets up a blockbuster gold-medal clash against Pakistan.

Pakistan had already secured its place in the final after defeating Bangladesh in the first semi-final.

This will be the first time Pakistan have reached the men's cricket gold-medal match at the Asian Games, making the upcoming India-Pakistan encounter even more significant.

Gold medal now at stake

India will now face Pakistan with the Asian Games gold medal on the line.

After such a dominant semi-final performance, India will enter the final with considerable momentum. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be looking to produce another strong performance and claim the gold.

The stage is now set for one of the biggest possible cricket rivalries to decide the Asian Games men's T20 champion.