Bangladesh Cricket Board president Tamim Iqbal is hopeful that India will come to Bangladesh for the upcoming white-ball series in September. The proposed tour is a three-ODI, three-T20I package, but is yet to be confirmed due to some developments off the field.
The talks with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are ongoing, with officials from both boards exchanging emails, Tamim said. There is no final decision yet, but the BCB president stated that the discussions have been positive thus far and he is still hopeful that the series will happen.
BCB continues discussions with BCCI
Tamim admitted there is still a lot of confusion regarding India’s proposed visit, but the Bangladesh board is trying its best to make the series possible. He also emphasized that the BCB does not have control over certain factors.
“There is a lot of discussion going on with the BCCI and there is an exchange of emails amongst the members of the BCB and we are trying from every corner to reach a decision,” Tamim said, adding that he hoped it would be soon.
Six-match series still uncertain
The proposed tour for September is to play six white-ball matches with the two sides to play three ODIs and three T20Is. The series would be a big one for Bangladesh, with the huge interest in matches against India.
The anticipation of an India-Bangladesh series is especially high among fans, players and the media, Tamim said. He also said that Bangladesh is prepared to arrange everything and feels that it can host the Indian team safely.
Political situation remains a factor
The proposed tour is taking place in the context of a complex situation in bilateral relations. The cricketing relationship has been somewhat improved in recent times, and there are some hopes that it could go forward, but there are a few things that need to be worked out before the schedule can be confirmed.
Tamim said the talks have been positive but the final call would have to be taken by both parties. He said the BCB will keep discussing with the BCCI and make its case for the series to proceed.
Tamim takes new ICC responsibility
Apart from the India series, Tamim also spoke about his recent appointment as chairman of the ICC committee set up for franchise leagues. He said the role was a great accomplishment to both him and Bangladesh.
The committee will be responsible for all matters concerning franchise T20 competitions, such as league approvals, governance and compliance of existing and proposed tournaments with the required processes. Tamim feels the committee may have a growing role to play in franchise cricket as it expands across the world.
Decision expected soon
The BCB is looking for clarity in the near future regarding the India tour as the window for September is approaching. There are positive signs in the discussion, but it is not up to Tamim alone to make the final decision, he said.
Bangladesh are hopeful of playing India in the six-match white-ball series for now. A confirmed tour would definitely boost the Bangladesh cricket and create a lot of interest among the fans in both countries.
