India's Cricket Tour of Bangladesh in Doubt Amidst Diplomatic Row: Sources

Sources indicate that the Indian cricket team is unlikely to proceed with their scheduled tour to Bangladesh for a white-ball series, due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

A highly placed source revealed to India Today that the BCCI has been advised to call off the tour.

Suryakumar Yadav anticipates potential series cancellation.

Diplomatic Tensions Impacting Sports

The India-Bangladesh relationship is currently experiencing strain due to trade-related issues. The Indian government's recent imposition of import restrictions on goods from Bangladesh, including garments and processed foods, has further exacerbated the situation.

According to a notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), ready-made garment products will not be permitted entry into India via northeast-based integrated check posts (ICPs). This action is perceived as a reciprocal measure to similar restrictions previously implemented by Bangladesh.

"The current political climate in Bangladesh, coupled with the existing diplomatic challenges, has led the Indian government to advise the BCCI against proceeding with the tour," the source stated, requesting anonymity.

BCCI's Official Confirmation Awaited

An official statement from the BCCI regarding the matter is pending.

The scheduled tour included three ODIs and three T20Is, intended to serve as preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup for both teams. The potential cancellation represents a setback for both squads. The Indian T20I team has not competed in any matches since their bilateral series against England, which concluded with a 4-1 victory in January-February.

The Indian cricket team is presently engaged in a five-match Test series in England, slated to continue until the first week of August. The Bangladesh tour was expected to be their subsequent assignment, commencing on August 17.

As per the original plan, the ODIs were to precede the T20Is. Following the Bangladesh tour, India is scheduled to host a home Test series against the West Indies in October.