Hong Kong, 5 October 2026: Bhuvneshwar Kumar will captain India at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, leading a seven-man squad drawn entirely from Indian Premier League regulars. The six-a-side tournament returns to the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground from 30 October to 1 November.
The experienced seamer is joined by his Royal Challengers Bengaluru team-mate Krunal Pandya, Punjab Kings finisher Shashank Singh, Gujarat Titans all-rounder Rahul Tewatia, Delhi Capitals pair Nitish Rana and T Natarajan, and Kolkata Knight Riders batter Rahul Tripathi.
India squad for the Hong Kong Sixes 2026
Bhuvneshwar Kumar (captain), Krunal Pandya, Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, T Natarajan.
How the side fits the format
With six players a side and six overs an innings, there is little time to settle. Every player has to contribute with bat, ball or both. Bhuvneshwar brings new-ball control and years of international experience, while Krunal adds the balance of a proven all-rounder.
Rana gives India aggression at the top of the order, and Tripathi adds more attacking intent. Shashank and Tewatia, both known for finishing games in the IPL, could be the men India turn to in the closing overs. Natarajan is the specialist left-arm seamer.
Anuraag Bhatnagar, director of marketing and commercial at Cricket Hong Kong, China, said: “We are very grateful to the Indian cricket authorities for their support in helping us put together arguably one of the strongest sides that has represented India in the history of the Sixes.”
Unfinished business from 2025
India opened their 2025 campaign with a two-run win over Pakistan on the DLS method but went out after losing their following matches. Pakistan return as defending champions after beating debutants Kuwait in last year’s final to win a record sixth title.
The 2026 edition brings together eight leading cricket nations and four Associate Members. India have been drawn with Pakistan and the UAE, so a rematch with the holders comes early.
The tournament will be shown live in India on the Sony Sports Network.
