Sports streaming platform FanCode has secured the exclusive digital streaming rights in India for the historic one-off T20I between India and Japan. The match will be streamed live in India from the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture, with the game set to begin on September 22 at 9:30 AM IST.
Notably, the fixture will mark the first meeting between the senior men’s cricket teams of India and Japan. The Suzuki Cup match is part of the bilateral ‘Sport 75’ initiative, which celebrates 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries and also serves as a preparation match ahead of the 2026 Asian Games.
FanCode Secures India Streaming Rights, Star Sports bag TV rights
According to Cricbuzz, FanCode has secured the exclusive digital streaming rights in India for the historic one-off T20I between India and Japan. FanCode has also worked with the Japan Cricket Association (JCA) on Japanese pathway cricket.
ITW Universe holds the exclusive global rights for the match, including sports production, broadcast distribution and commercial marketing. The company will also control the broadcast feed and commercial inventory for the fixture.
The digital deal has been finalized, and the television broadcast in India is also confirmed. According to Cricbuzz, Star Sports has secured the TV rights.
Netflix, YouTube Among Platforms Eyeing Global Rights
The India-Japan T20I has attracted interest from major international streaming platforms. Notably, the match is being held alongside the 2026 Asian Games and has received support from the governments of India and Japan, increasing its commercial appeal.
According to Cricbuzz, YouTube and Netflix could enter the race for the global digital rights. JioHotstar, which has recently expanded its service globally, could also be among the potential bidders.
ITW Universe co-founder Bhairav Shanth highlighted the importance of taking India to Japan for the historic fixture.
“Securing the exclusive rights for this historic match is a proud milestone for ITW Universe. India playing Japan on Japanese soil for the very first time is a monumental moment for global cricket. Having full control over the broadcast and commercial footprint allows us to build a premium, world-class experience for viewers while offering an unmissable, first-mover platform for brands and media networks.”
India-Japan T20I to Build Towards Asian Games
Japan Cricket Association CEO Naoki Alex Miyaji said the match will help raise the profile of cricket in the country. Playing against India will give local fans a chance to watch top-level cricket and inspire a new generation of Japanese players.
With Japan preparing to host the cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games, the match provides an opportunity for the players to test themselves against strong opposition and gain valuable international experience.
The Indian team are expected to travel to Japan on September 19 and hold a practice session on September 21. They will use the Suzuki Cup match to adapt to the local conditions and work on their combinations before beginning their Asian Games campaign.
The one-off T20I will be Japan’s first international meeting with India. Japan have officially announced their squad for the historic T20I against India, with Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming set to lead the side.
