Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to the national setup for India’s New Zealand tour, beginning October 22
India’s campaign at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 will see a leadership change, with all-rounder Krunal Pandya named captain of the seven-member Indian squad, replacing Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has received a call-up to the national team for India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand, beginning October 22. Gujarat Titans pacer Kulwant Khejroliya will replace Bhuvneshwar in the squad for the tournament, scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 1.
Krunal will lead a squad featuring a blend of experienced IPL performers, explosive batters and versatile all-rounders, bringing depth and firepower to the fast-paced six-a-side format. The squad comprises Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, T. Natarajan and Kulwant Khejroliya, alongside the new captain.
Bhuvneshwar’s selection for the national team marks a significant moment in his international career, with the experienced pacer set to return to the Indian setup after four years. While his absence will be felt at the Hong Kong Sixes, the team will look to Krunal’s leadership and the squad’s collective experience to make a strong impact at the tournament.
Commenting on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national team, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Commercial & Marketing, Cricket Hong Kong, China, said, “While we will certainly miss Bhuvneshwar Kumar at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, we are delighted to see him earn a call-up to the national team. His return to international cricket after four years is a special milestone, and we wish him every success on India’s tour of New Zealand. We look forward to welcoming him back to the Hong Kong Sixes in the future.”
Mr. Hamza Ghouse, Lead – Special Projects, JSW Sports, said, “Bhuvi’s call-up to the national team reflects his experience, quality and perseverance. While we would have loved to see him in action at the Hong Kong Sixes, representing the country remains a special achievement for any player. We wish him the very best for this next chapter of his international career and look forward to seeing him back at the tournament in the future.”
The 2026 edition marks the first year of JSW Sports’ association with the Hong Kong Sixes as its Commercial Partner. The partnership brings together the tournament’s distinctive format and JSW Sports’ experience in managing sports properties, leagues and franchises across India and international markets. Known for its explosive batting, attacking bowling and rapid-fire contests, the Hong Kong Sixes offers a distinctive take on the traditional game, with its compact format promising three days of high-energy cricket for fans.
In India, the tournament will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network, with FanCode as the live-streaming partner.
Updated India Squad – Hong Kong Sixes 2026
- Krunal Pandya (Captain) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Shashank Singh – Punjab Kings
- Rahul Tewatia – Gujarat Titans
- Nitish Rana – Delhi Capitals
- Rahul Tripathi – Kolkata Knight Riders
- T. Natarajan – Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Kulwant Khejroliya – Gujarat Titans
Tickets for the 2026 Hong Kong Sixes are now on sale at HKD 780 for all three days, giving fans access to three days of international cricket, big hitting and high-energy entertainment.