In the 2025 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & East Asia Pacific Qualifier, the Super Six stage continues to deliver thrilling encounters. One of the most anticipated fixtures is Japan vs Qatar (Super Six – Match 6).
Both sides are hungry for a win that could keep their qualification hopes alive for the upcoming 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. The match promises a fierce contest between Japan’s steady progress and Qatar’s fighting spirit.
Japan vs Qatar: Match Details
- Match: Japan vs Qatar, Super Six – Match 6
- Date: 15 October 2025
- Time: 11:30 AM IST (06:00 GMT)
- Venue: Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 2), Al Amerat, Oman
- Format: T20 International (Super Six stage of the Asia & EAP Qualifiers)
Historical Context
Japan’s Journey
Japan has been steadily improving in international cricket, particularly in shorter formats. Their rise has been fueled by disciplined bowling and a growing domestic structure.
In this tournament, Japan has shown moments of brilliance, especially with their top order’s ability to adapt and accelerate in key moments.
Qatar’s Path
Qatar, led by Mirza Mohammed Baig, entered the Super Six stage with mixed performances.
Their squad includes experienced players who have featured in past qualifiers, but inconsistency has been their biggest hurdle.
Despite a few narrow losses, Qatar remains capable of producing match-winning spells and explosive batting bursts.
Japan vs Qatar: Head-to-Head Record
Japan and Qatar have faced each other a few times in international T20 cricket.
Historically, Qatar had the upper hand in earlier meetings, but Japan’s recent form has flipped the script.
Japan defeated Qatar in their last encounter, chasing comfortably and showcasing a well-balanced performance. That win gives them a psychological advantage heading into this match.
Japan vs Qatar: Match Analysis
Pitch and Conditions
The Al Amerat Cricket Ground offers balanced conditions. Morning matches here often assist fast bowlers with a hint of swing early on, while later in the day, the pitch flattens out and helps stroke-makers.
Spinners also get some grip as the match progresses, especially in the middle overs.
Japan’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Consistent opening partnerships have given Japan early stability.
- Their fielding and discipline have improved remarkably, often saving crucial runs.
- A balanced bowling unit with pace and spin options.
Weaknesses:
- Middle-order inconsistency when chasing large totals.
- Death bowling can falter under pressure.
Qatar’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Experienced top order with players capable of quick starts.
- Quality spinners who can control the tempo during the middle overs.
- Leadership experience of Mirza Mohammed Baig.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent batting collapses in pressure situations.
- Overdependence on a few key players for runs and wickets.
Key Battles to Watch
- Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming vs Mujeeb ur Rehman – Japan’s captain against Qatar’s leading spinner will be a pivotal matchup.
- Imal Liyanage vs Reo Sakurano-Thomas – Qatar’s power-hitter against Japan’s best pace bowler.
- Death Overs Battle – The team that handles the last five overs better—both in batting and bowling—will likely win.
Probable Playing XI
Japan Probable XI
- Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (Captain)
- Abhishek Anand
- Eesam Rahman
- Sabaorish Ravichandran
- Benjamin Ito-Davis
- Charles Hinze
- Ibrahim Takahashi
- Reo Sakurano-Thomas
- Declan Suzuki
- Alexander Patmore (Wicketkeeper)
- Shoma Slater
Qatar Probable XI
- Imal Liyanage (Wicketkeeper)
- Zubair Ali
- Shariq Munir
- Muhammad Asim
- Muhammad Tanveer
- Mirza Mohammed Baig (Captain)
- Shahzaib Jamil
- Mohammad Ikramullah Khan
- Daniel Archer Louis
- Mujeeb ur Rehman
- Owais Ahmed
Today Match Prediction: Japan vs Qatar
Japan enters this contest with momentum and a stronger head-to-head record against Qatar.
Their top order looks settled, and their bowling unit has been delivering consistently.
Qatar, on the other hand, has struggled to maintain rhythm in this Super Six stage, but they are known for springing surprises.
- Toss Prediction: The captain winning the toss might choose to bat first to post a challenging total around 165–175.
- Winning Chances: Japan – 60%, Qatar – 40%.
- Predicted Winner: Japan (based on current form and recent head-to-head results).
- Key Players to Watch: Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (Japan), Sabaorish Ravichandran (Japan), Imal Liyanage (Qatar), Mujeeb ur Rehman (Qatar).
If Japan can hold their nerve during the death overs, they are likely to secure a vital win in the Super Six stage.
Why This Match Matters
The Super Six stage determines which teams move forward toward T20 World Cup qualification. Both Japan and Qatar are desperate to stay alive in contention, making this clash a must-win.
Beyond the points, this match also carries symbolic importance—proving the rapid rise of Associate nations in Asia’s cricketing landscape.
FAQ’s
When will Japan vs Qatar Super Six Match 6 take place?
The match is scheduled for 15 October 2025 at 11:30 AM IST in Al Amerat, Oman.
Which team has the upper hand historically?
Qatar won the early meetings, but Japan have dominated recent encounters.
What type of pitch can teams expect at Al Amerat?
A balanced surface assisting both pacers and spinners, with batting becoming easier in the second innings.
Who are the key players to watch?
Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and Sabaorish Ravichandran from Japan, and Imal Liyanage and Mujeeb ur Rehman from Qatar.
What is at stake in this match?
A win in this Super Six match can significantly boost qualification hopes for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, making it one of the most crucial games in this phase.
Conclusion
The Japan vs Qatar Super Six Match 6, 2025, is set to be a tightly fought contest between two rising cricketing nations.
With both sides aiming to climb the qualification ladder, expect intense cricket, strategic decisions, and emotional moments.
Japan’s recent consistency gives it a slight edge, but Qatar’s fighting spirit makes it a dangerous underdog. Fans can look forward to a gripping encounter at Al Amerat.