BCCI Mulls India 'B' Squad for Asian Games 2026 Over Inadequate Facilities in Japan: Report
India has named Shreyas Iyer as captain of its 15-member men's cricket squad for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, with Tilak Varma as vice-captain. This second-string team will compete in the T20I tournament from September 24 to October 3 at Korogi Sports Park, as the senior squad faces a home series against West Indies starting September 27.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering fielding a second-string or 'B' men’s squad for the upcoming 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, following serious reservations over playing facilities and logistical arrangements. Reports indicate the Indian cricket board has conveyed its apprehensions to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) regarding sub-standard infrastructure and pitch conditions at the designated cricket venue. Asian Games 2026 Cricket Schedule Announced for Men’s and Women’s Teams.
With the continental multi-sport event scheduled to feature the T20 format, the BCCI is reluctant to risk front-line international cricketers on untested surfaces ahead of a congested international calendar.
Concerns Over Ground and Logistical Arrangements
Cricket matches at the 20th Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Tochigi Prefecture at the Sano International Cricket Ground, roughly 400 kilometres north-east of the main host city of Nagoya. The distance, coupled with temporary accommodation and training infrastructure, has raised operational questions for visiting delegations.
A source from BCCI told ANI that the board and ACC are not satisfied with the facilities and arrangements for cricketers in Japan, and an observer from BCCI could be sent there. If the facilities are not found to be up to the mark, BCCI could consider sending a 'B' team to the competition.
The source stated, "BCCI and ACC are not happy with the facilities and arrangements in Japan, and the board will send an observer there. The observer will submit its report to us, and if arrangements are not up to the mark, we could consider sending a B team there. We told Japan Olympics officials during the ACC in a meeting that the dressing rooms were set up in tents and washrooms were just 500 m away from those tents, which has created an unsatisfying situation for the players. Also, the hotel rooms are really small, and it is a big concern." Cricket at Asian Games 2026: Venue, Teams and All You Need to Know.
Squad Composition and Selection Strategy
Should the BCCI proceed with its current contingency plan, an India 'B' squad comprising emerging domestic talents, India 'A' regulars, and promising Indian Premier League (IPL) performers will represent the country.
A similar strategy was deployed during the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, where a young squad led by Ruturaj Gaikwad clinched the gold medal whilst the primary senior side prepared for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on home soil.
The final decision will depend on an upcoming inspection report and subsequent discussions between the BCCI, the IOA, and the Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC).
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 28, 2026 12:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).