Cricket Match Prediction | Cook Islands tour of Japan 2025 | Japan vs Cook Islands | 1st T20I | May 13 – who do you think will dominate the first T20I?

JPN vs COK Match Analysis

The 1st T20I of the Cook Islands tour of Japan 2025 is scheduled for May 13 at the Sano International Cricket Ground at 6:30 AM BST. After failing to win the tri-series, both teams aim to gain momentum in this two-match series.

In the Japan T20I Tri-Series 2025, Japan showcased a dominant performance throughout the group stages, remaining unbeaten with two wins and two no results. Their bowlers, notably Sabaorish Ravichandran and Makoto Taniyama, were instrumental in securing victories, with Ravichandran delivering economical spells and Taniyama taking crucial wickets. However, in the final, Thailand’s disciplined bowling and composed batting turned the tide, leading to Japan’s defeat by 6 wickets. Despite the setback, Japan’s consistent form and strategic gameplay highlight their growing prowess in international T20 cricket.

In the Japan T20I Tri-Series 2025, the Cook Islands faced challenges, securing one win, two losses, and one no-result. Their sole victory was against Thailand, where they successfully chased a modest target, showcasing resilience and determination. Despite the setbacks, the team displayed moments of promise, indicating potential for growth in future tournaments.

JPN vs COK Team Preview & Squads

Japan

Under the leadership of Captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, Japan achieved a historic 205-run victory over Mongolia in May 2024, bowling them out for just 12 runs—the second-lowest total in T20I history. This win is among the largest margins in T20I cricket, showcasing Japan’s growing prowess on the international stage. Key players like Sabaorish Ravichandran and Charles Hinze have been instrumental, with Ravichandran leading in wickets and Hinze delivering economical bowling spells. As Japan continues to build momentum, they are poised to make significant strides in upcoming international competitions.

As captain, Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming has been a cornerstone of Japan’s batting lineup. With 1,420 runs at an average of 45.80 in T20 Internationals, he holds the record for the most runs by a Japanese player in the format. Notably, he became the first Japanese cricketer to score two T20I centuries, including a 109* against China, part of a record-breaking 258-run opening partnership.

An all-rounder, Sabaorish Ravichandran has been pivotal with both bat and ball. He was named the 2024 Japan Cricket Association Player of the Year, reflecting his consistent performances. In the T20 format, he has taken 35 wickets at an average of 13.88, making him one of Japan’s leading wicket-takers.

As a bowler, Makoto Taniyama has delivered impressive figures, with 30 wickets at an average of 11.30 in T20Is. His economical bowling has been crucial in restricting opponents and securing victories for Japan.

Japan Squads 

Japan

Kendel Fleming, Lachlan Lake, Declan Suzuki, Sabaorish Ravichandran, Makoto Taniyama, Koji Hardgrave Abe, Ibrahim Takahashi, Kazuma Kato-Stafford, Kazumasa Takahashi, Kiefer Yamamoto-Lake, Wataru Miyauchi, Abhishek Anand, Abdul Samad, Ryan Drake, Shoma Slater, Benjamin Ito Davis, Charles Hinze

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands cricket team is experiencing a period of growth and competitive performance. In the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier A, they secured notable victories, including an 8-wicket win over Samoa, highlighted by Thomas Parima’s 104 off 52 balls. Their efforts in regional qualifiers reflect their ambition to make a mark on the international stage.

As the team’s top run scorer, Hayden Dickson has been instrumental in their batting lineup. He boasts an impressive average of 29.37, with a strike rate of 154.6, and has scored 235 runs, including a record-breaking unbeaten 112* against Vanuatu.

Serving as the captain, Ma’ara Ave has led from the front, accumulating 290 runs in 6 matches with an average of 56.42. His leadership and consistent performance have been pivotal to the team’s success. Oscar Taylor has been the team’s leading bowler, taking 17 wickets in 6 matches with an economy rate of 7.95. 

Cook Islands Squads 

Cook Islands

Thomas Parima, Aue Parima, Benjamin Vakatini, Oscar Taylor, Jared Tutty, Cory Dickson, Cameron Thorp, James Pickering, Ma’ara Ave, Liam Denny, Pita Ravarua, Tiaki Wuatai, Tomakanute Ritawa, Hayden Dickson, Paani Vaialo, Milton Kavana      

Japan vs Cook Islands outfield report 

Sano International Cricket Ground, Sano, Kanto

The Sano International Cricket Ground offers a balanced pitch suitable for T20 cricket. Historically, the average first innings score has been around 82 runs, with teams batting first winning approximately 40% of the matches. The pitch provides decent assistance for both batters and bowlers, making it a sporting venue for T20 matches.

On May 13, 2025, Sano is expected to experience considerable cloudiness with a brief shower or two. The high will be around 71°F (22°C), with a low of 53°F (12°C). Humidity levels are anticipated to be moderate, and there’s a possibility of light rain, which could affect playing conditions.

Given the balanced nature of the pitch and the forecasted weather conditions, the toss may not have a significant impact on the outcome of the match. Both teams might consider their strengths and strategies when deciding whether to bat or bowl first.

Japan vs Cook Islands Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches 

In their most recent two encounters, Japan emerged victorious in one while the other was abandoned.

Japan vs the Cook Islands Prediction 

Cricket analysts predict that Japan has a 51% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.