Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 3rd April 2026, 12:57 PM
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has taken a significant diplomatic step aimed at restoring strained cricketing ties with India, formally reaching out to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an effort to revive a previously suspended bilateral series. The initiative comes amid broader attempts to stabilise relations between the two boards following a period of uncertainty linked to scheduling disputes and wider geopolitical sensitivities surrounding international cricket commitments.
According to cricketing sources, tensions between the two boards escalated earlier this year after the cancellation of a contractual arrangement involving Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman and the Indian Premier League side Kolkata Knight Riders. The development, combined with heightened security concerns, contributed to Bangladesh’s reluctance to confirm participation in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup in India under existing arrangements. The resulting deadlock ultimately led to Bangladesh being replaced by Scotland in the main tournament lineup.
Following a change in political leadership in Bangladesh, the BCB has adopted a more conciliatory approach. In its latest communication to the BCCI, the board has outlined a three-point proposal aimed at rebuilding bilateral engagement and restoring the cricketing calendar that had previously been agreed upon.
A key component of the proposal is the revival of India’s postponed tour of Bangladesh, originally scheduled for September and comprising three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). The tour was suspended indefinitely by the Indian board at the time. The BCB has also expressed interest in reopening discussions regarding Bangladesh’s potential tour of India next year, alongside securing India’s participation in the 2027 Asia Cup, which Bangladesh is expected to host.
However, Indian officials have maintained a cautious stance. The BCCI has indicated that decisions regarding bilateral series scheduling and venue confirmation remain subject to clearance from the Government of India. Until formal approval is obtained, the board is unwilling to make any binding commitments.
| Series | Format | Original Schedule | Current Status | Proposed Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India tour of Bangladesh | 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is | September (this year) | Suspended | Revival proposed by BCB |
| Bangladesh tour of India | ODIs/T20Is (TBC) | Next year (tentative) | Under discussion | Negotiation requested |
| Asia Cup (Bangladesh host) | Multi-team event | 2027 (projected) | Planning stage | India participation sought |
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh national team is currently preparing for a home white-ball series against New Zealand, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is. The series is set to begin on the 17th of this month with the opening ODI, marking an important phase in Bangladesh’s international calendar as it seeks to regain competitive momentum amid ongoing administrative diplomacy.
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