Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s much-anticipated return to international cricket could face delays as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) awaits clearance from the Indian government for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh.
This tour, scheduled for August, was set to mark their comeback following their retirement from Test cricket in May 2025 and exit from T20Is last year.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had earlier confirmed the tour schedule, which includes three ODIs on August 17, 20, and 23, followed by T20Is on August 26, 29, and 31, to be played in Mirpur and Chattogram. However, BCB President Aminul Islam stated on Monday that the Indian board has not yet given formal confirmation, citing pending government approvals. “We are hopeful,” Aminul said after a board meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. “The discussions have been positive, but they’re awaiting clearance.”
If the tour fails to receive the necessary approvals in time, Kohli and Rohit’s next appearance in Indian colours could be postponed until October, when India travels to Australia for a three-match ODI series starting October 19.
Despite the uncertainty, BCB remains optimistic that India will fulfil the August fixtures or reschedule them for the next available window. Aminul emphasized the professionalism and cooperation of the BCCI throughout the planning process.
Notably, this phase marks a transition for Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma set to continue as ODI captain, while separate skippers lead the T20I and Test formats. The Bangladesh tour would also mark a critical step in India’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Meanwhile, Cricket Australia is reportedly planning a tribute to Kohli and Rohit during the Australia tour, which could potentially be their final series Down Under as international players.
