Shreyas Iyer Eager for Asian Games Debut in Japan

Shreyas Iyer, the captain of India's T20 cricket team, is thrilled to make his debut at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. He looks forward to the opening match against Japan and is eager to connect with athletes from various sports. Iyer emphasizes the team's unity and determination to achieve victories, aiming to bring pride to the nation. The men's cricket competition will take place from September 24 to October 3, 2026, featuring a strong squad that combines experience and emerging talent. With notable players like Jasprit Bumrah and Sanju Samson, India is set to make a significant impact at the Games.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 12, 2026, 21:22 IST

Excitement for the Asian Games

Shreyas Iyer, the captain of India's T20 cricket team, has shared his enthusiasm about participating in the Asian Games for the first time, which will take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. He emphasized the importance of India's inaugural match against the host nation, Japan, and expressed his eagerness to engage with athletes from various sports, including hockey players and Olympians, to gain insights into their competitive spirit and mindset.

Iyer stated that the Indian team aims to present a united front at the Games, aspiring to achieve victories and bring pride to the nation. The 2026 Asian Games are scheduled from September 19 to October 4, with men's cricket matches set to occur between September 24 and October 3.

A Historic Match Ahead

Iyer remarked, "This is an exhilarating moment for both me and the team. It will be my first Asian Games, while some teammates have prior experience from the last edition. Our opening match against Japan is particularly significant."

Unity and Team Spirit

He further added, "Connecting with hockey players and other Olympic athletes will be a fantastic opportunity. I look forward to learning from them and supporting their events. We are heading there as one nation, determined to secure victories and make our country proud."

India's Cricket Squad for the 2026 Asian Games

Under Iyer's leadership, India will field a robust squad for the men's cricket event at the 2026 Asian Games, blending seasoned players with emerging talent. The 15-member team includes notable names such as Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar, alongside rising stars like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The lineup also features Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Ravi Bishnoi, ensuring a well-rounded team across batting, bowling, and all-round capabilities.

India's Squad: Shreyas Iyer (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.