Bhuvneshwar Out of Hong Kong Sixes, Krunal Pandya Named Captain

India’s preparations for the Hong Kong Sixes have changed at the last minute. Fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has withdrawn from the tournament after being picked in the national T20I squad for the New Zealand tour. He was initially expected to lead India in the six-a-side event, but his international commitments have forced a reshuffle.

Krunal Pandya Takes Over the Captaincy

With Bhuvneshwar unavailable, all-rounder Krunal Pandya has been appointed captain of the side. The experienced campaigner will now guide a squad built around power-hitting and canny bowling, qualities that matter in a format where every ball counts.

Kulwant Khejroliya Joins the Pace Attack

Left-arm pacer Kulwant Khejroliya has been brought in as Bhuvneshwar’s replacement. The 34-year-old, who plays for Gujarat Titans in the IPL, completes the revised squad and adds variety to a pace unit that also features T Natarajan.

India’s updated squad is Krunal Pandya (captain), Shashank Singh, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tewatia, Rahul Tripathi, T Natarajan and Kulwant Khejroliya.

The batting line-up has plenty of firepower, with Shashank Singh, Nitish Rana and Rahul Tripathi able to score quickly from the first ball. Tewatia’s all-round skills could also prove useful in a competition where teams need players who contribute in more than one department.

Group C Fixtures and Format

India have been drawn in Group C alongside Pakistan and UAE. The headline fixture is the India vs Pakistan clash on October 30, which is sure to draw plenty of attention. The tournament follows the fast-paced six-a-side, six-over format, so there is little room for error, and teams must make an immediate impact with bat and ball.

Despite the late change, India will hope the blend of experience and aggression in their squad can deliver a strong campaign in Hong Kong.