**Cricketers to Receive Premium Accommodation at Asian Games 2026, Says Japanese Official**
As the Asian Games 2026 approaches, officials have announced that cricketers will enjoy superior accommodation compared to many other athletes participating in the event. Naoki Alex Miyaji, CEO of the Japan Cricket Association, emphasized that cricket teams will be provided with hotel accommodations, while many athletes from other sports will be housed in more limited facilities, including a cruise ship and temporary container hotels.
The Asian Games, set to take place in Nagoya and the surrounding Aichi area from September 19 to October 4, 2026, will feature both men's and women's competitions in the T20 format. This year’s event has raised concerns regarding the availability of five-star hotels, with some of Asia's top cricket teams expressing doubts about the quality of facilities and accommodations provided for the athletes.
Miyaji acknowledged the challenges faced by organizers, stating that the preparations for cricket at the Asian Games began only 17 months prior to the event. He noted that the organizing committee, in collaboration with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), has been actively working to secure the best possible arrangements for the cricket teams. “Despite being temporary, the facilities will provide as comfortable a space as possible for the players and officials,” he assured.
Cricket is considered a minor sport in Japan, and the matches will be held at the Korogi Sports Park, which has been converted from a baseball field. Reports indicate that the dressing rooms for players may be set up in tents, with toilet facilities located some distance away. This situation has led to concerns among athletes regarding the overall quality of the accommodations.
The number of athletes participating in the Asian Games has surged to approximately 17,000, significantly higher than the 11,000 athletes expected at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This increase in participants has put a strain on accommodation resources, prompting organizers to explore various options to house athletes.
Miyaji highlighted that the cricket pitch is being prepared by the curator of Sri Lanka's Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, known for its high-quality playing surfaces. He expressed confidence that the cricket facilities at the Asian Games will be among the best seen in the event's history.
In light of the accommodation issues, reports have emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is dissatisfied with the current arrangements. There are indications that India may consider sending a second-string squad instead of the originally named 15-player team, which includes notable players like Shreyas Iyer and the promising 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
As the countdown to the Asian Games continues, the focus remains on ensuring that all participating athletes, particularly cricketers, receive the best possible experience during the event. The organizers are under pressure to meet the expectations of athletes and officials alike, while also navigating the logistical challenges posed by the large number of participants.