Team India’s preparations for the 2026 Asian Games have run into an unusual last-minute issue. The men’s cricket team, led by Shreyas Iyer, is scheduled to travel from New Delhi to Nagoya, Japan, but there has been confusion over players’ jersey and kit sizes just before departure.
The issue has reportedly led to discussions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and JSW Inspire, the official kit supplier of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Why Does Team India Need Two Different Kits?
The Indian men’s cricket team will use two different sets of jerseys during its Japan tour.
The team is scheduled to play a T20 match against Japan on September 22, for which the players will wear their regular BCCI jerseys.
However, when the Asian Games cricket competition begins on September 28, the players will switch to the official Asian Games kit prescribed by the IOA.
The use of two separate kits has reportedly created some confusion over jersey and kit sizes. While most of the issues have been addressed, the remaining kits are expected to be delivered directly to the players.
Why Did the BCCI Arrange a Separate Hotel?
Another logistical issue concerns the team’s accommodation in Nagoya.
Unlike some major multi-sport events, the 2026 Asian Games does not have a conventional Games Village for all athletes. Participants are being accommodated across different facilities, including hotels, cruise ships and container-style housing.
The Indian women’s cricket team is staying in accommodation arranged through the IOA. However, the rooms allocated to the men’s team reportedly did not have enough space for the players and their large cricket kit bags.
To address the issue, the BCCI arranged private hotel accommodation for the men’s team before their departure.
The move is intended to provide the players with adequate space and ensure that their rest and preparation are not disrupted by accommodation-related issues.
India’s Asian Games Cricket Schedule
India will enter the 2026 Asian Games as the defending gold medallists in men’s cricket.
The Indian team has received direct entry into the quarter-finals. The quarter-final is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM IST.
If India progresses to the semi-finals, that match is scheduled for October 1 at 10:00 AM IST. The gold-medal match is also scheduled for a 10:00 AM IST start.
With the team preparing to travel to Japan, the remaining kit and accommodation issues are being addressed ahead of India’s Asian Games campaign.