Reports: Sri Lanka reach out to BCCI after Bangladesh tour called off

With India's white-ball tour of Bangladesh officially postponed to 2026, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to host a short bilateral series in August 2025. The proposed series comprises six matches, including three ODIs and three T20Is, to fill the vacant window created by the now-called-off Bangladesh tour.

India were originally scheduled to travel to Bangladesh from August 17 to 31 for three ODIs and three T20Is. However, considering scheduling challenges and international commitments, both the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) mutually agreed to push the series to September 2026. The postponement has led the BCCI to explore alternative engagements.

Seeing an opportunity, SLC submitted a formal request to the BCCI to host a bilateral white-ball series in mid-August. The window fits well with Sri Lanka’s calendar, especially with the Lanka Premier League (LPL) also rescheduled, freeing up the domestic space for international fixtures. If approved, the series will see the return of Indian batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who now only play ODIs.

According to a Cricbuzz report, the BCCI is currently reviewing the proposal. A decision is expected after discussions with the Indian team management, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, during the ongoing Lord’s Test in London. Notably, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is active in these considerations.

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BCCI yet to decide on Asia Cup

While Sri Lanka's request is under serious consideration, the BCCI’s final decision will largely depend on their status in the Asia Cup. Scheduled for September, the fate of the Asia Cup is uncertain due to ongoing political tensions in the region, particularly between India and Pakistan. Considering the Indian government’s stance, the BCCI is expected to follow official advisories closely.

A decision on the Asia Cup is likely to be taken within the next few days. If the tournament is postponed or moved to a later date, it could make way for the India-Sri Lanka series to proceed. Meanwhile, a green light for the Asia Cup could limit the schedule and force the BCCI to reconsider additional bilateral fixtures.