The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has stated it will follow guidance from the Bangladeshi government before confirming their upcoming cricket tour to Pakistan. Bangladesh’s initial schedule set them to play five Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) in Pakistan from May 25 to June 3. However, these fixtures were affected by a revised Pakistan Super League (PSL) schedule due to recent tensions between Pakistan and India.
The PSL final is now scheduled for May 25, the same day Bangladesh was due to play their first T20I against Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has since proposed a new schedule, with the T20I series running from May 27 to June 5.
Speaking on the matter, BCB’s media committee chairman, Iftekhar Rahman, shared that the decision will hinge on assessments from governmental security entities and the Bangladesh High Commission in Islamabad. Rahman stated, “Once we receive official communication about the dates and venues [of the tour], we will forward it to the government. The BCB is not the decision-maker in this matter. If the government agencies and our embassy declare Pakistan safe for travel, only then will we proceed.”
He further explained that any security evaluations will involve the country’s foreign and home ministries before a final decision is made. “Security concerns were more significant in the past, but Pakistan has proven it can ensure safety. Still, given the current circumstances, we need to assess whether the situation across the country is stable before sending the team,” Rahman added.
Before facing Pakistan, Bangladesh is set to play two T20 matches against the UAE in Sharjah on May 17 and 19, with initial plans to travel to Lahore by May 21.
This developing situation comes amid a backdrop of political complexities and previous security issues that had placed the viability of international cricket in Pakistan under scrutiny. While recent events have stirred concerns, there’s a balanced recognition of Pakistan’s strides towards hosting safe sporting events.
