Could Sri Lanka Cricket Host India for a White-Ball Series?
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Synopsis
As Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) explores hosting India for a white-ball series in August after a scheduling gap, discussions will take place during ICC meetings in Singapore. This comes after the postponement of a series with Bangladesh due to security concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka Cricket is considering a white-ball series with India.
- Final discussions are set for the ICC meetings in Singapore.
- The series follows the postponement of the Bangladesh series due to security issues.
- Focus may shift towards T20 matches ahead of the T20 World Cup.
- Sri Lanka is looking to improve after a disappointing series against Bangladesh.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is actively considering the opportunity to host India for a white-ball series in early August, capitalizing on a rare gap in the schedules of both nations. Final discussions are anticipated this week during the ICC meetings in Singapore.
This development follows the mutual agreement between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to postpone their white-ball series, consisting of three ODIs and three T20 Internationals, from August 2025 to September 2026. The decision was largely influenced by security concerns stemming from unrest in the neighboring country.
The Bangladesh tour was set to commence on August 17, right after India's ongoing five-Test series against England, concluding with the last match from July 31 to August 4.
“We’ve received encouraging feedback. Additional discussions will take place in Singapore during the ICC meeting. We expect a conclusion within two to three days,” stated a senior SLC official to www.telecomasia.net.
If approved, the series may take place in Colombo and Kandy. Initially, the proposal included three ODIs and three T20Is, but the focus is likely to shift towards T20 matches, especially with the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in February-March, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
This opportunity arose after the Lanka Premier League (LPL), initially scheduled for August, was postponed. Concurrently, India and Bangladesh decided to delay a six-match limited-overs series that was also slated for the same time, creating a window that SLC is eager to utilize.
Sri Lanka is coming off a disappointing 2-1 T20 series loss to Bangladesh — their first defeat to the Tigers in this format. This setback has led captain Charith Asalanka to urge the board for more high-quality cricket ahead of the World Cup.
“There are still several spots available, and competing in high-stakes matches is crucial. We cannot afford to enter the World Cup unprepared,” Asalanka emphasized.
Point of View
It is essential to note that Sri Lanka's pursuit of hosting India reflects the dynamic nature of international cricket scheduling. This potential series could not only enhance competitive spirit but also prepare both teams for the upcoming T20 World Cup. It is vital for SLC to seize this opportunity for the growth of cricket in the country.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Bangladesh series postponed?
The Bangladesh series was postponed due to security concerns arising from the political unrest in the country.
What format will the potential series with India include?
The potential series with India is expected to include both ODIs and T20 matches, with a likely emphasis on T20s ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup.
Where might the series be held?
If approved, the series is likely to be held in Colombo and Kandy.
What prompted SLC to seek this series?
The postponement of the Lanka Premier League and the Bangladesh series has created a scheduling opportunity that SLC is keen to utilize.
How did Sri Lanka perform in their last series?
Sri Lanka suffered a 2-1 T20 series defeat to Bangladesh, marking their first-ever loss to the Tigers in this format.
