The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is actively seeking opportunities to arrange an away series during the now-vacant August window, following the postponement of India’s scheduled tour of Bangladesh to September next year.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, BCB cricket operations chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim confirmed the board’s intention to keep the national players engaged. “We had earlier planned internal matches, such as the ‘A’ team playing the national side, but now we are exploring the possibility of playing outside the country for a limited time,” he said. “If that doesn’t happen, we’ll fall back on internal fixtures.”
The postponement of the high-profile home series has left a gap in Bangladesh’s international calendar. The BCB is keen to ensure players remain in rhythm and match-ready, particularly with important assignments ahead.
Meanwhile, the question of Bangladesh’s Test captaincy remains unresolved after Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down following the second Test against Sri Lanka last month. Shanto’s decision to relinquish the role came after concerns about the board’s three-captain strategy for different formats, which he reportedly felt could destabilise the dressing room environment.
Fahim, who had flown to Sri Lanka during the Test series to address the situation, admitted that despite discussions, Shanto remained firm in his decision. “We definitely wanted him to continue, but we respect his choice,” said Fahim. “There was adequate communication before as well, and both sides are clear about what happened.”
Shanto returned home after the ODI series in Sri Lanka. As of now, the BCB has not announced a replacement Test captain, leaving speculation over who will lead Bangladesh in the longer format moving forward.
With the August window now open and the Test leadership in question, the board faces critical decisions in the weeks ahead—both on and off the field.