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Sri Lanka Propose White-Ball Series to India After Bangladesh Tour Cancellation
SLC Approaches BCCI for August Series Amid Scheduling Shake-Up
In the wake of India’s postponed tour of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has formally approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) with a proposal to host a six-match white-ball series in August 2025. The suggested series would feature three ODIs and three T20Is, filling the void left by India’s scrapped trip to Bangladesh.
The BCCI, while yet to issue an official response, is actively considering the proposal, with internal discussions underway. A key factor influencing their decision is the scheduling of the Asia Cup 2025, which could run from September 10 to 28, pending approval from the Government of India.
Proposal Could See Return of Rohit and Kohli in ODIs
Veteran Duo May Feature if Series Gets the Green Light
Should the BCCI approve Sri Lanka’s request, Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—both of whom have stepped away from T20Is and Tests—are likely to return in ODIs for the short series. Their presence would undoubtedly boost viewership and bring added significance to the proposed tour.
India were initially scheduled to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh from August 17 to 31, but the tour was deferred due to international calendar congestion and logistical reasons cited by both the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
According to a BCCI insider, “There is a request pending from SLC, but we haven’t finalized anything yet. It depends on our assessment of the Asia Cup schedule and player availability.”
Asia Cup 2025 Decision May Influence Series Feasibility
With the Asia Cup looming on the calendar, the BCCI’s decision will also weigh heavily on the Indian team’s preparations and player workload. Devajit Saikia, BCCI secretary, is currently in London for the ongoing Lord’s Test, where he is expected to consult with head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar about the feasibility of playing a series in Sri Lanka before the continental tournament.
These discussions will likely shape the BCCI’s response to the SLC’s proposal. While there is no conflict between a short series in August and the Asia Cup in September, the BCCI wants to ensure that players are not overburdened, especially ahead of a high-profile continental event.
Political Clearance Key for Asia Cup Hosting
The Asia Cup 2025, currently under the administrative purview of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chaired by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is still awaiting clearance from the Indian government. Given the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding India-Pakistan sporting relations, especially after recent military tensions, the Government of India’s stance will be crucial in determining India’s participation and hosting commitments.
Until there is clarity on this front, the BCCI is expected to hold off on firm decisions about either the Sri Lanka series or Asia Cup preparations.
SLC’s Strategic Push and BCCI’s Balancing Act
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board sees this proposed series as a vital opportunity to host high-profile matches and generate much-needed revenue, especially following scheduling disruptions. For India, however, the priority remains balancing player workloads, planning for the Asia Cup, and preparing a squad that remains fit and competitive.
Whether the series materializes or not will likely be determined by the outcome of the ongoing high-level meetings between BCCI officials, team management, and selectors. An announcement is expected within a few days, with the cricketing world keeping a close watch.
