Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Tamim Iqbal has expressed confidence that India’s scheduled white-ball tour of Bangladesh will go ahead in September 2026, stating that the country is “extremely safe” as discussions continue with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Although the tour has not yet received final confirmation, Tamim said both cricket boards remain in regular contact and are working towards ensuring the series is played as planned.
BCB and BCCI Continue Discussions
Speaking at a media interaction, Tamim revealed that communication between the two boards is ongoing through meetings and email exchanges.
He said the Bangladesh board is making every possible effort within its responsibilities to facilitate the high-profile bilateral series, while acknowledging that certain decisions remain beyond the BCB’s control.
Tamim Reassures Over Security
Addressing concerns surrounding the tour, Tamim stressed that Bangladesh remains a safe destination for international cricket.
He said the excitement surrounding an India-Bangladesh series is immense among fans, players and the media, adding that the BCB is prepared to take every necessary step to ensure the successful conduct of the matches.
His comments come as speculation continues over the status of India’s visit, with official confirmation still pending.
Six-Match White-Ball Series Planned
The proposed tour features:
- Three One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
The series was initially scheduled for August 2025, but both boards mutually agreed to postpone it to September 2026 due to scheduling considerations.
Afghanistan Series Could Be Deferred
To create space in India’s international calendar, the team’s planned three-match T20I series against Afghanistan is expected to be postponed.
However, any changes to the Future Tours Programme remain subject to approvals from the respective cricket boards, governments and logistical authorities.
Tamim Highlights His Role
The former Bangladesh captain also clarified that, while he is actively promoting the series, there are clear limits to his authority as BCB president.
He reiterated that his responsibility is to facilitate discussions and highlight the importance of the India series, while respecting the decision-making process involving both cricket boards and relevant authorities.
India’s Last Bangladesh Tour
India last toured Bangladesh in 2022, playing three ODIs and two Test matches.
Bangladesh won the ODI series 2-1, while India responded by sweeping the Test series 2-0.
Currently, India are preparing for their upcoming Test assignment in Sri Lanka, while Bangladesh are set to begin a two-Test tour of Australia.
If approved, the September 2026 white-ball series is expected to be one of the biggest cricketing events on the international calendar.
FAQs
Will India tour Bangladesh in 2026?
The tour has not been officially confirmed yet, but BCB president Tamim Iqbal remains optimistic that it will take place in September 2026.
What did Tamim Iqbal say about Bangladesh’s safety?
Tamim described Bangladesh as an “extremely safe country” and said the BCB is taking all necessary steps to host the Indian team.
How many matches will India play in Bangladesh?
The proposed tour consists of six white-ball matches—three ODIs and three T20Is.
Why was the India-Bangladesh series postponed?
The series was originally scheduled for August 2025 but was deferred by mutual agreement between the BCCI and BCB to September 2026.
What will happen to India’s Afghanistan series?
India’s planned three-match T20I series against Afghanistan is expected to be postponed if the Bangladesh tour proceeds as scheduled.
When did India last tour Bangladesh?
India last visited Bangladesh in 2022, losing the ODI series 2-1 before winning the two-match Test series 2-0.
