Bangladesh and India are working to preserve an upcoming cricket series amid heightened diplomatic tensions between the neighboring nations. The six-match white-ball tour, consisting of three one-day internationals and three T20 contests, is scheduled for next month but faces significant obstacles. Bangladesh Sports Minister Aminul Haque confirmed that negotiations are underway at the ministerial level, with foreign ministers from both countries engaged in efforts to move forward with the planned matches.
Bilateral relations have deteriorated following political upheaval in Bangladesh last year when mass protests led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She subsequently fled to India, where she currently remains. The strain between the two nations was evident earlier this year when Bangladesh declined to participate in the T20 World Cup held in India, citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council rejected Bangladesh’s request to host their matches in an alternative location, ultimately replacing them with Scotland.
This proposed series marks an important opportunity for both nations to resume cricket engagement. India’s most recent tour of Bangladesh occurred in 2022, while Bangladesh visited India in late 2024 for bilateral matches. Sports Minister Haque expressed optimism about resolving the impasse, stating that officials hope to reach an agreement promptly and restore normal cricket relations between the two countries.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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