The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is engaged in “active and ongoing discussions” with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) concerning the planned white-ball tour later this month. The tour’s future is uncertain due to rising tensions along the India-Pakistan border.
“The BCB wishes to reiterate that the safety and security of its players and support staff remain the Board’s highest priority,” stated an official release on Saturday. “All decisions concerning the tour will be made with careful consideration of the current situation in Pakistan, ensuring they align with the best interests of the team and Bangladesh cricket.”
Bangladesh are scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on 21st May to compete in five T20 Internationals in Lahore and Faisalabad. However, the circumstances near the border have led to serious apprehension about the tour proceeding as planned.
Before heading to Pakistan, the Bangladesh cricket team will travel to Dubai this week. They will face the UAE in two T20 matches at Sharjah on 17th and 19th May. These matches serve as preparation for the Asia Cup taking place in September. Post Dubai, the team plans to head to Lahore for their fixtures against Pakistan.
Two Bangladeshi cricketers, Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana, who participated in the 2025 Pakistan Super League until its suspension, returned to Bangladesh last Friday. Rishad, who represented Lahore Qalandars, and Rana, associated with Peshawar Zalmi, landed in Dhaka and are set to join the national squad for their UAE trip on Wednesday. Even if the PSL resumes soon, it appears unlikely they will return due to forthcoming international obligations with Bangladesh.
Mohammad Isam is the Bangladesh correspondent for ESPNcricinfo.
