From Bihar to Japan - Abhishek Anand’s Cricket Journey

Cricket may be a passion for millions in India, but Bihar-born Abhishek Anand has taken his love for the sport all the way to Japan, where he earned a place in the national team. Hailing from Rohtas, Anand completed his Chemistry education at IIT Kanpur, where he also played cricket and captained the college team. After moving to Tokyo for employment, he continued playing club cricket alongside his professional career. His performances at the local level eventually earned him a place in Japan’s national side. Ahead of the historic India-Japan T20I on September 22, a video featuring Anand went viral. Asked about being a Bihari playing cricket for Japan, he responded, “Bihari kahan nahi hai bhai,” drawing attention online.

However, Anand is not part of Japan’s 15-member squad for the historic T20I against India. The match will be played on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture and will mark the first international cricket meeting between the two sides. The fixture is also being held as part of celebrations marking 75 years of India-Japan diplomatic relations and as preparation for the 2026 Asian Games. Anand, 28, made his T20I debut for Japan against the Cook Islands in May 2025. He has since played 18 T20Is, scoring 275 runs with a highest score of 55, besides taking one wicket, according to recent reports.