Following the home Twenty20 International (T20I) series against England and Australia, India is steadfastly building towards the World Cup in Bangladesh later this year with an additional tour added to the mix of the Future Tour Programme.
Following the Women’s Premier League (WPL), India is set to tour Bangladesh for a 5-match T20I series. The two teams clashed in three T20Is and as many One-Day Internationals last year. India clinched the T20I series in the decider, while the ODI decider ended in a tie amid allegations of biased umpiring, concluding the series with a 1-1 draw.
While biased umpiring and poor pitches dominated the headlines during India’s previous tour to Bangladesh, the hosts showcased their competitive spirit, challenging India on multiple fronts. Since then, Bangladesh has secured inspiring victories against Pakistan at home and South Africa in an away series, indicating their readiness to provide tough competition in the forthcoming 5-match T20I series.
According to the draft itinerary prepared by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), all matches of the forthcoming series will take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from April 28th to May 9th, 2024.
With Bangladesh scheduled to play Australia a couple of weeks out from the India series, they kick off their preparations for the massive home summer very early. A spin camp is scheduled in Dhaka from February 28 to March 20 and this will be followed by a skill and fitness camp in Khulna from March 4 to March 16.
India lost the T20I series to both England and Australia in December 2023 – January 2024. From the surprise selection of any breakout WPL talent from the ongoing WPL season to the return of senior pros following a successful domestic season, there is much to be watched as selectors mull over the best possible squad.
With the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled for September – October in Bangladesh and both teams eyeing their first World Cup title, it’ll be a crucial series, and they will want to finalize their squads post this series.