Cricket fans in India could be in for a treat as former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are likely to make their return to international cricket in August. This comes after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has reportedly proposed a limited-overs series against India, aiming to fill a gap in India’s schedule.
Bangladesh Tour Postponement Opens Window
Originally, the Indian team was slated for a white-ball tour of Bangladesh in August, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is. However, due to prevailing political circumstances in Bangladesh, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to postpone this tour to September 2026. This postponement has created an unexpected vacant window in India’s international calendar for August.
Sri Lanka Steps In with Series Proposal
To capitalize on this open slot, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has extended an offer to host an identical series of three ODIs and three T20Is against India. Reports indicate that discussions are currently underway between the BCCI and SLC to finalize the logistics and dates for this proposed series. The postponement of the Lanka Premier League (LPL), which was initially scheduled for July-August, has also cleared Sri Lanka’s calendar, making them available to host.
A Potential Comeback for Rohit and Kohli
This development is particularly exciting for fans as it could pave the way for the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both star players have reportedly retired from Test and T20I formats, with ODIs being their primary focus in international cricket. They were last seen in action for India during the ICC Champions Trophy in March 2025. If the series materializes, it would provide them with valuable match practice before India’s other commitments, including a white-ball series against Australia in October.
BCCI Considering Options
While Sri Lanka’s proposal is currently being explored, sources indicate that the BCCI has received requests from a few other cricket boards as well, all looking to play against India during this available window. A top source familiar with the developments stated, “We have received a few requests and are exploring our options. There are a few boards who do not have any cricket assignments during that period and have offered to play with India within that window.”
Asia Cup 2025 and Other Future Fixtures
In other scheduling news, the BCCI is also expected to seek guidance from the Indian government regarding the venue for the upcoming Asia Cup, which is currently scheduled to begin on September 5 in the UAE. The situation has changed since the initial proposal, and the BCCI will abide by the government’s advice. Following any potential series against Sri Lanka, India’s next confirmed assignments include a two-match home Test series against West Indies starting October 2, followed by the white-ball tour of Australia and a multi-format series against South Africa later in the year.
