The upcoming limited-overs series between Bangladesh and India, which was set to commence from August 17, is in high uncertainty and is close to being cancelled. The series that was to include three ODIs and three T20Is has been put under a cloud because of deteriorating diplomatic ties between the two neighboring nations.
Based on a report by Cricbuzz, the Indian team is most unlikely to make the trip to Bangladesh for the series, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made the initial tangible step toward a postponement by suspending its media rights process. The bidding process for broadcasting rights was initially scheduled to open on July 7, with financial bids following on July 10. However, that process has now been put on hold indefinitely with no further dates given.
One Indian television network informed Cricbuzz, “They have briefed us that there is no India series. They did not release the Invitation to Tender (ITT) after announcing the tender. As of now, they are going ahead with the Pakistan series only.”
The ITT, that was to be rolled out between June 15 and July 6 at a cost of USD 3,000, has also been shelved. This postponement is being seen as a definite sign that the India tour is now not on the agenda at all.
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Why the Sudden Uncertainty?
Sources indicate the main reason for the probable cancellation is the shifting political situation in Bangladesh, especially following the recent toppling of Sheikh Hasina. The political transition has allegedly resulted in a cooldown of diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh.
Behind the scenes, the Indian government is reportedly urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not to send the national team to Bangladesh in the present situation. Though the BCCI has made no public announcement, in-house deliberations suggest the final decision would soon be made. A mutual statement by both boards might be issued to clear the air.
Impact on Senior Players
One of the byproducts of this is further postponement of the international comeback of senior Indian players such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The veteran pair, who currently only play ODIs, were set to make their comeback to the team for this series. With the series set to be cancelled, their wait to return to action in Indian colors will be prolonged even longer.
Until today, everyone is waiting with bated breath from the BCCI and BCB for an official announcement, but indications are that there will be a complete cancellation of what would have been a highly anticipated series between two ardent cricketing nations.
