New Delhi/Dhaka | Northeast Press Desk:
India’s much-anticipated white-ball cricket tour to Bangladesh, scheduled for August 2025, is likely to be postponed due to the deteriorating security situation in the neighboring country. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly reconsidering the tour after reviewing the current geopolitical and civil scenario in Bangladesh, according to sources close to the board.
The Men in Blue were originally set to play three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 Internationals (T20Is) between August 17 and 31 in Dhaka and Chittagong. However, uncertainty looms large after recent developments in Bangladesh, particularly following last year’s civil unrest which led to the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led government.
🔴 Political Instability and Civil Unrest in Bangladesh Raises Alarms
Since late 2024, Bangladesh has been engulfed in political turmoil that has not only disrupted internal governance but also triggered diplomatic tension in South Asia. The toppling of the long-standing Hasina government has left a vacuum in leadership, resulting in large-scale protests, security challenges, and mass mobilizations across major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong — both of which were set to host India’s matches.
The Indian government has reportedly advised the BCCI to reconsider sending the national cricket team to Bangladesh under the prevailing circumstances. A senior BCCI official, speaking anonymously, stated:
“The Ministry of External Affairs has given a strong advisory against travel to Bangladesh for now. The safety of our players and staff is our top priority. We are closely monitoring the developments and an official announcement is expected shortly.”
🏏 India-Bangladesh Cricket Rivalry: A Recent Recap
India last toured Bangladesh in 2024, where they emerged victorious in both formats. The Men in Blue whitewashed the hosts in the three-match T20I series (3-0) and followed up with a commanding performance in the two-match Test series (2-0). The 2024 tour was celebrated for its sportsmanship and high viewership across the subcontinent, further deepening the cricketing ties between the two nations.
With the 2025 tour now likely to be delayed or even canceled, fans on both sides of the border are left disappointed.
⚠️ Security First: BCCI’s Cautious Approach
The BCCI’s cautious stance is not without precedent. Over the years, the board has canceled or relocated tours when the safety of players has been in question. In recent months, reports of political violence, curfews, and disruptions in essential services in Bangladesh have been consistent, compelling Indian authorities to act proactively.
In the words of another BCCI insider:
“Cricket is important, but not more than human lives. Our players’ safety is non-negotiable. We are in touch with the Ministry of Home Affairs and MEA for a final call.”
📣 Official Statement Awaited
While no formal announcement has been made yet, reliable sources suggest that a public statement will be issued soon by the BCCI. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), too, is expected to hold a press conference in response to the unfolding situation. If postponed, it remains to be seen whether the tour will be rescheduled later this year or cancelled entirely.
🌐 Implications on Cricket Calendar
The postponement may also have ripple effects on India’s tight cricketing schedule leading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and other key tournaments. Team management may use the freed-up window for rest, conditioning camps, or scheduling fixtures with other nations in more stable environments.
