Bangladesh and Nepal could face each other in a landmark bilateral cricket series early next year, following a formal proposal from Nepalese diplomats to bolster ties and inspire recovery after devastating floods in Nepal. Although the two South Asian nations have previously met twice on the international stage—both occasions coming during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup—they have never contested a standalone bilateral series.
The initiative gathered momentum during a recent high-level meeting between Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, and Bangladesh’s State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haq. Ambassador Bhandari formally expressed his country’s keen desire to host the Bangladesh national cricket team, highlighting how a high-profile sporting event could lift the spirits of the Nepalese public following recent severe natural disasters.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has responded positively to the gesture, acknowledging the cultural and diplomatic value of the fixture while working through logistics. Speaking to reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, BCB Cricket Operations Manager Shahriar Nafees confirmed that active discussions are under way between the governing bodies.
“The BCB and the Cricket Association of Nepal are currently in discussions,” Nafees stated. “Our Future Tours Programme (FTP) is exceedingly tight. Nevertheless, we are actively searching for a suitable window within this cycle to accommodate the matches. If all alignment aligns smoothly, the series will certainly materialise.”
Nafees further emphasised that both boards share a mutual interest in ensuring the tour takes place, particularly given the diplomatic backing behind the request. “It is our strong desire to execute this series within the ongoing cycle. The Cricket Association of Nepal has made a formal request, and we are viewing the prospect with utmost positivity.”
The potential expansion of Bangladesh’s playing schedule comes amidst a demanding international calendar. Having recently concluded their tour of Australia, the national squad is currently turning its attention to the Asian Games. Preparations for the tournament commence at Mirpur before the team departs for the United Arab Emirates, where a busy schedule awaits involving a Test match against Afghanistan and a multi-format triangular series alongside Zimbabwe.
