Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Tamim Iqbal has stated that the board remains hopeful about hosting an Indian cricket team in September 2026. The proposed series, which is currently slated to feature three ODIs and three T20Is, remains subject to various conditions, with observers suggesting that the outcome is influenced more by political relations between the two nations than purely sporting factors.
The cricketing ties between the two countries recently hit a historic low after India opted to skip a T20I tournament, citing security concerns during the tenure of the Yunus-led government. While there was anticipation that the newly elected BNP government might prioritize damage control, there has been little evidence of such initiatives thus far. Tamim acknowledged the uncertainty, noting that he currently lacks concrete news regarding the series but is actively communicating with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
"I am in discussions with the BCCI and there's an exchange of emails happening between BCB members, and we are trying from all quarters," Tamim said. He emphasized that the excitement surrounding a series against India is immense for fans, journalists, and players alike. Stressing that Bangladesh is a safe country, the BCB president maintained he is doing everything within his official capacity to advocate for the tour, though he acknowledged that certain aspects of the decision-making process fall outside his control. He expects clarity on whether the series will proceed in the near future.
In addition to his domestic duties, Tamim recently took on the role of chairman for the International Cricket Council (ICC) franchise league committee. He expressed pride in the appointment and satisfaction with his initial ICC meetings. The committee, he explained, is tasked with overseeing the approval processes for various global T20 leagues. "If you look at world cricket right now, along with cricket board members with the ICC, there are many others who are associate members as well — 90-plus probably or 100. So various countries are probably applying for T20 cricket in various leagues," he noted, adding that the committee ensures standards are maintained and monitors the involvement of various stakeholders in the expanding landscape of franchise cricket.
“Bangladesh's series against India, the excitement is at a different level, I'm sure from journalists, from fans, cricketers, everyone,” he said. “Bangladesh is an extremely safe country, and I am very hopeful that they will come. Whatever steps need to be taken from our side, we are trying. But one thing we all need to understand — I am the BCB president, and there is also a line that I should never cross. So from my position, whatever is possible to do within my responsibility, I am talking to people, I am trying to tell them what advantages there are with the India series and all those things.
“There are certain things that are beyond my control. The discussions I've had so far have been very positive discussions. They also have to make a decision. Very soon, perhaps, we will find out whether the series is happening or not. So we will know very soon,” he added.
