NEW DELHI – Much much-anticipated cricket series between neighboring India and Bangladesh was pushed back, it was reported on Saturday.
The ODI and T20 series between Asian giants was slated to be held in August this year, but was postponed to 2026, both cricket boards announced.
The series was to feature 3 ODIs and same T20Is starting August 17 in Bangladesh capital, but these games were deferred by mutual agreement between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
In a joint statement, the boards said the decision was made after considering the “international cricketing commitments and scheduling convenience of both teams.” While no explicit reason was cited, the move comes amid strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Tensions have simmered since the political upheaval in Bangladesh last year, which saw the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following a mass student-led uprising. Hasina reportedly fled the capital by helicopter in August 2024 and sought refuge in New Delhi.
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India after weeks of violent protests forced her resignation, leaving nearly 300 dead. She was received in India by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and is reportedly seeking asylum in the West. Hasina’s departure is seen as a major setback for India, which had strong diplomatic and strategic ties with her government.
During 15-year rule, India and Bangladesh deepened trade, security, and infrastructure cooperation. However, a controversial power deal with India’s Adani Group and her increasingly authoritarian governance fueled domestic anger.
