The eagerly awaited Bangladesh women’s cricket tour of India, originally scheduled for mid-December, is now in jeopardy following a delay in government approval. The series, which was expected to feature three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 matches, has been thrown into uncertainty, leaving fans and players on edge.
According to sources within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), official clearance from the Indian government is still pending, leaving organisers unable to confirm dates, venues, or even the participation of the Bangladesh team. This delay comes despite the fact that the Bangladesh women’s squad had already commenced preparations for what promised to be an exciting tour.
An official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the government has yet to issue the required sanction. “We have not yet received formal approval for the series. Until then, everything is uncertain,” the official stated. This development comes as a disappointment to cricket fans who were hoping for another chapter in the burgeoning India-Bangladesh women’s rivalry, which has gained momentum over the last few years.
Last year, Bangladesh hosted a five-match T20 series against India, and earlier in 2023, the two sides clashed in Mirpur for a mixed series of ODIs and T20s. Both series were competitive and showcased the rise of women’s cricket in the subcontinent. With this latest tour in limbo, both teams risk losing valuable match practice ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
The BCCI is reportedly considering alternative plans should the government deny approval. Officials are exploring the possibility of organising a series against another international team to ensure the Indian women’s cricket calendar remains uninterrupted.
Fans and players remain hopeful that the impasse will be resolved swiftly. A cancellation would not only disappoint supporters but could also disrupt the preparations of both sides for future competitions. The delay highlights the intricate interplay between sports administration and government protocols, which often complicates international fixtures.
As things stand, both boards are awaiting clarity from Indian authorities. The cricketing community will be watching closely in the coming days, hoping that the much-anticipated mid-December series can go ahead as planned.