Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s return to international cricket also remains in the balance, with world cricket looking forward to their next performance in Indian whites. Both giants took a break from T20Is last year while Rohit recently announced his retirement from Test cricket in May. The two were supposed to represent India in the upcoming white-ball tour of Bangladesh in August but their return remains to be announced by the BCCI.
Bangladesh Tour Faces Uncertainty As BCCI Awaits Government Clearance
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had, back in April, announced that India would tour the nation to play a six-match limited-overs series comprising three ODIs on August 17, 20, and 23, before three T20Is on August 26, 29, and 31. The games were meant to be played between Mirpur and Chattogram.
But BCB president Aminul Islam on Monday told that the BCCI is still pending the official go-ahead for the tour as they are yet to get clearance from the Indian government.
Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma’s ODI Return
If the tour of Bangladesh is cancelled, Kohli and Rohit would have to wait until October to return internationally, when India tours Australia for a three-match ODI series starting October 19. This series could be especially meaningful, with Cricket Australia said to be planning to celebrate the two veterans — possibly in their swansong Down Under.
BCB Hopeful, But Contingency Plans In Place
In spite of uncertainty, the BCB is optimistic about hosting India in August, saying they have received positive indications from the Indian board. In the event of the tour being postponed because of non-clearance, both boards are likely to rearrange the series at the earliest possible opportunity.
“I have already spoken to the BCCI. The discussions have been positive,” said Aminul after the 19th board meeting held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Monday. “We are hopeful. The tour is scheduled [for next month], but they are awaiting some government approvals.” as mentioned by Hindustan Times
“The talks are ongoing. If for any reason they can’t come in August, they will tour in the next window. We are still optimistic about this schedule. All I can say is that the BCCI has been professional and cooperative,” Aminul Islam, president of Bangladesh Cricket Board said.
