The Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is pleased to announce that 2026 Embassy Cup will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the Sano International Cricket Ground.
Now in its ninth year, the Embassy Cup was established with the aim of promoting a diverse society and encouraging the exchange of different values and cultures. The event brings together teams representing embassies of cricket-playing nations, fostering international friendship and cultural exchange through sport.
While the Embassy Cup has traditionally been held over two days, this year's event will be scaled down to a single day on Saturday, October 24 due to the administrative burden associated with the recent Asian Games.
A total of eight teams, including Japan, will compete in the T10 format, with each team facing a maximum of 10 overs.
In addition to the cricket matches, a live jazz performance by a band led by Taro Koyama, one of Japan's leading jazz drummers, will take place from 3:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy an exciting day of cricket and music.
The Tanuma Furusato Festival, a long-standing local community event traditionally held alongside the second day of the Embassy Cup, will take place on Sunday, October 25.
Although there will be no official Embassy Cup matches on Sunday, the festival will feature a demonstration match between the Japan Men's National Cricket Team and the local Sano Bulls Cricket Club. The match will be accompanied by live commentary from the comedy duo "Tamashizu", who are well known for their knowledge of cricket.
A cricket experience area will also be available, giving visitors of all ages the opportunity to try the sport for themselves.
Admission is free on both days. We warmly invite you to join us with your family and friends for a weekend of international sport, music, and cultural exchange.
【Embassy Cup 2026 – Event Information】
- Event: Embassy Cup 2026
- Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:15 PM
- Venue: Sano International Cricket Ground (300-1 Tochimoto-cho, Sano, Tochigi 327-0312)
- Admission: Free
- Organiser: Japan Cricket Association
- Co-organiser: City of Cricket Sano Supporters Club
- Sponsors: Global Trust Networks Co., Ltd. and MIRAIT ONE NEXT Corporation
【Embassy Cup 2026 – Highlights】
● International Cricket Tournament Featuring Embassy Teams
A total of eight teams, including Japan and teams representing various embassies, will compete in T10 matches.
The tournament will be divided into two divisions, with teams competing to become champions of their respective divisions.
Please note that matches will be played simultaneously on two grounds.
The schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions and match progress.
● Live Jazz Performance
Saturday, October 24 | 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy a live jazz performance by a band led by renowned Japanese drummer Taro Koyama.
Experience the sounds of live jazz alongside the international atmosphere of the Embassy Cup.
● Enjoy Cricket at the Tanuma Furusato Festival!
Sunday, October 25
The Tanuma Furusato Festival will take place at the same venue on the day following the Embassy Cup.
As part of the festival, a special demonstration match will be held between the Japan Men's National Cricket Team and Sano Bulls Cricket Club.
The match will feature entertaining live commentary by "Tamashizu", a Japanese comedy duo known for their cricket-themed performances. Their humorous commentary will help introduce the excitement of cricket to spectators of all ages.
A cricket experience area will also be available, offering everyone the opportunity to try cricket in a fun and welcoming environment.
＜Sunday, October 25 – Schedule＞
11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tanuma Furusato Festival
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Cricket Demonstration Match (Japan Men's National Team vs Sano Bulls Cricket Club)
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Sky Lantern Event
Please note that no official Embassy Cup matches will be held on Sunday, October 25.
Event details and schedules are subject to change or cancellation due to weather conditions or operational circumstances.
We look forward to welcoming you to Embassy Cup 2026!