Amid the ongoing deadly coronavirus outbreak, several sporting activities across the world have been temporarily suspended for an indefinite period. In a recent development, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) opened up that it is yet to completely rule out touring Sri Lanka in July, while also adding that important discussions between the two boards were still going on about playing the series.
It is to be noted that Bangladesh are originally scheduled to play three Test matches in Colombo, Galle and Kandy respectively in the third week of July, and all of the three Tests are part of the ICC World Test Championship. The Bangladesh Cricket Board made it very clear that the government decides the fate of the series and there is no second thought about it.
Bangladesh Cricket Board yet to decide anything at the moment: Nizamuddin Chowdhury
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Cricket Board chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury told Cricbuzz that both boards were having regular meetings over the future of the three-Test series. “Even yesterday I had a meeting with SLC chief executive, and we are discussing the tour, but we are yet to decide anything at the moment,” said Nizamuddin.
Nizamuddin stressed on the fact that Sri Lanka had dealt with the coronavirus epidemic much better than other countries in South Asia. As of Thursday, Sri Lanka have recorded 649 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 136 of which have recovered from the disease.
“One thing you have to keep in mind that the government’s instructions on travel, these things are also important. If only that country is alright then that will not be enough, the guidance of our government is also important.
We are observing the situation and how their government is tackling the situation and all that along with keeping an eye on what is the order of our government because we have to see all these things. The corona infection is high currently in our country and we might get a clear picture after some days. Probably it will take another eight to 10 days to get a clearer picture of the entire situation and then we can take to any decision,” Nizamuddin said.
Due to COVID-19, Bangladesh had postponed their tour of Pakistan in March for an ODI and a Test in Karachi. As the condition around the world went from bad to worse, they had postponed their white-ball tour of Ireland in May. Bangladesh two-match Test series against Australia was also postponed with huge doubt over the other big home Test series against New Zealand in August.