As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan—with both countries reportedly exchanging heavy artillery fire along their disputed border—Bangladesh’s sporting authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Officials believe that the conflict may have long-term consequences for sports across the subcontinent.
In cricket, Bangladesh is scheduled to face both India and Pakistan in the coming months. The national men’s team is set to play five T20Is against Pakistan from May 25 to June 3 in Faisalabad and Lahore, right after their series against the UAE in Sharjah. Following that, the Tigers are scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in June before returning for another three-match T20I series against Pakistan in July, which falls outside the ICC’s Future Tours Programme (FTP).
India is then scheduled to visit Bangladesh starting August 13 for a series of three ODIs and three T20Is. All three teams are also expected to participate in the Asia Cup in September.
However, a report from the Times of India, citing an unnamed source, recently suggested that the 2025 Asia Cup and India’s white-ball tour of Bangladesh may be in jeopardy due to the ongoing tensions.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), however, stated on Wednesday that they have not received any official communication regarding the cancellation or postponement of any series. For now, their primary focus is ensuring the safety of Bangladeshi players currently participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board is closely monitoring the evolving security situation over the past 24 hours. The safety and well-being of Bangladeshi players currently playing in the PSL remain the Board’s top priority,” BCB said in a statement.
The board confirmed ongoing communication with Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana—both of whom are currently in Islamabad playing in the PSL. BCB President Faruque Ahmed has also personally spoken with PSL CEO Salman Naseer and Rishad to ensure the players’ safety and peace of mind.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced that the PSL will continue as scheduled. According to PCB media official Shafqat Shabbir, both Bangladeshi cricketers are receiving state-level security typically reserved for international matches. Rana’s team, Peshawar Zalmi, is set to play against Karachi Kings today.
Beyond cricket, other regional sporting events are also under uncertainty. The next edition of the South Asian Games—scheduled to be held in Islamabad in January 2026—could face disruption.
“It is too early to comment on the future of next year’s South Asian Games in Pakistan,” said a Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) official anonymously. “After Eid-ul-Adha, we will consult with other Olympic committees in the region, but for now, we are observing the situation closely.”
UA / TDS
