Why Is India Cricket Team Wearing A Different Jersey At Asian Games 2026?

Indian cricket fans are puzzled by the players' altered jersey at the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The sky-blue jersey features a distinct design, branding, and overall look compared to the outfit worn by Indian cricket teams in regular international matches. India's convincing 8-wicket win in the quarterfinals to qualify for the final four demonstrates the shift in uniforms.

However, the reason behind this change lies in the fact that the Asian Games are a multi-sport event governed by the broader Olympic framework. As a result, Indian cricketers wear the official kit provided for the Indian contingent instead of the BCCI's regular cricket jersey. This official Asian Games apparel is supplied by JSW Inspire, the Indian Olympic Association's official sports performance and lifestyle partner for the 2026 Asian Games.

The partnership covers the entire Indian contingent, including the cricket teams, who use the same event-specific apparel arrangement rather than the BCCI's separate commercial kit setup. This explains the absence of the BCCI crest and regular cricket sponsorship branding on the shirt.

Moreover, India's association with Adidas as their official kit partner remains unaffected by this change. Adidas will continue to be the BCCI's official kit partner until March 2028, while Apollo Tyres remains the lead sponsor for the national teams. The women's team wore their regular kits for the Asia Cup win and will revert to the same after the Asian Games. Similarly, the men's team will transition back to their Adidas jerseys after the Asian Games.