BCCI Set To Call Off Bangladesh Tour Due To Political Tensions: Sources
India’s much-anticipated white-ball tour of Bangladesh, scheduled for August 17–31, 2025, is set to be suspended due to rising political tensions in the host country. The bilateral series was to feature three ODIs and three T20Is, but sources have confirmed to News18 that the BCCI has decided not to proceed with the tour at this stage, citing serious security concerns.
Political Unrest Triggers Uncertainty
The political climate in Bangladesh has deteriorated significantly following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Widespread unrest and instability have led to heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh, contributing to the decision. Officials from both boards are expected to release a joint statement soon, framing the development as a “postponement” rather than an outright cancellation.
Media Rights Tender Paused
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has put a hold on its media rights tender process, which was scheduled for July 7 (technical bidding) and July 10 (financial bidding). Initially, the BCB aimed to sell media rights for the 2025–27 period. Now, the board will isolate rights sales for the T20I series against Pakistan (July 17–25), pushing broader plans to a later date.
Indian broadcasters, meanwhile, have reportedly been informed that the India tour will not happen. No Invitation to Tender (ITT) was issued either, confirming behind-the-scenes developments aligning with the anticipated postponement.
Impact on India’s Plans & Senior Players
This postponement could further delay the return of senior Indian cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who now feature predominantly in ODIs. The Bangladesh tour was seen as a window for both players to prepare for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy and Asia Cup. With that opportunity off the table, selectors and management might consider other options for their reintegration.
Asia Cup Still On Course
Despite the cancellation of the Bangladesh tour, India and Bangladesh are expected to clash again in the 2025 Asia Cup scheduled for September. At present, there are no indications of a change in that tournament’s status.
Broader Geo-Political Fallout
India’s decision adds to a growing list of cricketing disruptions caused by political unrest. India already refuses to engage in bilateral series with Pakistan due to long-standing diplomatic and security issues. While there have been internal voices—including head coach Gautam Gambhir—calling for a total freeze on Indo-Pak cricketing ties, the BCCI has not made such a drastic move yet. Notably, India and Pakistan’s women’s teams are set to face off during the 2025 Women’s World Cup.
In Summary:
- Tour Dates: Aug 17–31 (Now postponed)
- Matches Scheduled: 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is
- Reason: Political instability in Bangladesh
- Official Announcement: Expected jointly from BCCI and BCB
- Impact: Delay in Kohli-Rohit return; Media rights paused
- Asia Cup: Likely to go ahead in September
Stay tuned for the official statement and revised fixtures.
