Krunal Pandya takes over India captaincy for Hong Kong Sixes 2026

All-rounder Krunal Pandya has been named captain of the Indian squad for the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, taking over the leadership role from Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The tournament is scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced in the squad because he received a call-up to the national team for India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, which begins on October 22.

Gujarat Titans pacer Kulwant Khejroliya will take Bhuvneshwar's place in the seven-member Indian squad for the tournament in Hong Kong. Krunal Pandya will lead a lineup that combines experienced Indian Premier League performers, explosive batters, and versatile all-rounders designed for the fast-paced six-a-side format. The updated squad features Krunal Pandya, Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, T. Natarajan, and Kulwant Khejroliya.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's selection marks his return to the Indian setup after four years. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Commercial and Marketing at Cricket Hong Kong, China, commented that while Bhuvneshwar will be missed at the tournament, they are delighted by his national team call-up and wish him success on the New Zealand tour. The team will now rely on Krunal's leadership and the squad's collective experience to make a strong impact.