In a major development, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has formally approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to organize a six-match white-ball series in August 2025. The series, which would comprise three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), is being considered as a replacement for the now-cancelled India-Bangladesh tour that was originally scheduled from August 17 to 31.
This potential bilateral series could not only fill the cricketing void in August but also become the stage for the much-anticipated return of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the Indian squad.
Why Was India’s Tour of Bangladesh Cancelled?
India was initially scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a six-match white-ball series between August 17 and 31, 2025. However, both the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) agreed to postpone the tour to 2026 due to scheduling conflicts and international commitments. With a sudden gap in India’s cricket calendar, Sri Lanka seized the opportunity to propose a replacement series.
Return of Kohli & Rohit on the Cards?
According to multiple reports, including a Cricbuzz exclusive, this proposed series could witness the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s white-ball setup. Both players have stepped away from full-time T20I and Test commitments, focusing mainly on ODIs in the lead-up to the 2025 Champions Trophy.
With no competitive matches lined up in August, selectors may use this opportunity to assess senior players’ form and fitness, especially with the Asia Cup and ICC tournaments looming later in the year.
Asia Cup 2025: Another Scheduling Hurdle
A major challenge for the BCCI in accepting the Sri Lanka proposal lies in the Asia Cup 2025, which is tentatively scheduled for September 17 to 27. India is also the official host of the tournament. However, the final go-ahead is still pending Government of India approval, particularly regarding Pakistan’s participation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
This makes August a critical planning window for the Indian board, which must weigh the benefits of match practice against the risks of player fatigue.
Lord’s Test: The Decision-Making Ground
BCCI’s decision regarding Sri Lanka’s offer is expected to come after key consultations during the upcoming Lord’s Test in London. According to reports, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia will meet with:
- Team India players
- Head Coach Gautam Gambhir
- Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar
These discussions will play a pivotal role in determining squad availability, player workload, and the feasibility of the Sri Lanka series.
What Does This Mean for Cricket Fans & Teams from Sri Lanka Cricket
If approved, the India vs Sri Lanka white-ball series would:Give crucial match time to both sides before the Asia CupOffer a chance to test bench strength and senior playersHelp SLC generate revenue through home matchesProvide fans with high-voltage entertainment in August.
For Indian fans, the excitement of possibly watching Kohli and Rohit together again on the field would be a major highlight.
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With the Bangladesh tour postponed and the Asia Cup hanging in balance, Sri Lanka’s proposal offers a timely solution for both the BCCI and Indian cricket lovers. However, the final call will only be made after comprehensive discussions during the Lord’s Test in England.
Stay tuned for updates as we await BCCI’s official announcement on whether India will travel to Sri Lanka this August for what could be one of the most exciting series of the year