By The upcoming two-Test series between Bangladesh and Pakistan, set to begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi, is now in serious doubt due to escalating civil unrest in Bangladesh. The unrest erupted following the forced resignation and flight of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, creating significant instability in the country.
The series was scheduled to feature two Tests: one in Rawalpindi from August 21-25 and another in Karachi from August 30-September 3. However, the current situation may make it challenging for the Bangladesh team to travel. The uncertainty has also impacted the Bangladesh A team’s tour, which was meant to include matches against Pakistan Shaheens (A). Former Test captain Mominul Haque was expected to play for Bangladesh A in this series.
Adding to the complications, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has delayed the arrival of their A team by 48 hours, further jeopardizing the tour. Reports of attacks on the homes of senior Bangladeshi players have heightened the crisis, as the A team was scheduled to arrive in Pakistan soon, with the Test squad due to reach on August 17. The A team’s first four-day game was set to start on August 11.
In response to the situation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has extended an offer to the BCB to fly their Test team to Rawalpindi as soon as possible. The PCB has also offered to provide training facilities and accommodation in Rawalpindi to help facilitate the series. However, the BCB has yet to respond to this offer.
Communication with the BCB has been challenging, especially with BCB President Najmul Hosain Papon having left the country, which has disrupted normal operations. The PCB is trying to stay in touch with the BCB under these difficult circumstances, but the current state of affairs has cast a significant shadow over the series.
Bangladesh has not toured Pakistan since the 2019-20 season, so resolving this situation is crucial for both teams.
