With India’s white-ball trip of Bangladesh officially postponed until 2026, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about hosting a short bilateral series in August 2025. The proposed series includes six matches, three ODIs and three T20Is, to cover the void left by the now-cancelled Bangladesh visit.
India had planned to visit Bangladesh from August 17 to 31 for three One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 Internationals. However, due to scheduling issues and international obligations, the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) mutually agreed to postpone the series until September 2026. The postponement has prompted the BCCI to consider alternate engagements.
Sri Lanka saw an opportunity and made an official approach to the BCCI to organise a bilateral white-ball series in mid-August.
The window fits well into Sri Lanka’s calendar, especially since the Lanka Premier League (LPL) has been rescheduled, freeing up local space for international fixtures. If authorised, the series will feature the comeback of Indian batting legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who now exclusively play ODIs.
According to a report, the BCCI is now considering the proposal. A decision is expected following conversations with Indian team management, notably head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, during the Lord’s Test in London. Notably, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is engaged in these discussions.
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.
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