Sri Lanka Courts India with White-Ball Series Offer After Bangladesh Tour Collapse; Kohli & Rohit Return on Cards?

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider a white-ball series in August. This proposal surfaces after India's scheduled tour of Bangladesh was called off. While the BCCI is yet to issue an official response, this series could potentially mark the return of prominent players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the field. Both players are currently focused on the ODI format, having stepped back from other formats.

Kohli and Rohit could be seen in action in August © Getty

SLC's proposition includes six white-ball matches, mirroring the original plan for the Bangladesh tour, with three ODIs and three T20Is. The BCCI is currently evaluating its options, with the Asia Cup decision playing a crucial role. Stakeholders, especially the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)-led Asian Cricket Council (ACC), are keenly awaiting this decision.

An insider revealed to Cricbuzz on Tuesday, July 9th, "There is a request pending from the SLC, but we have not decided on it yet. We will have to see the situation with the Asia Cup. Everything is interlinked." While it's plausible for both the Asia Cup and the Sri Lanka series to proceed, the BCCI aims to consult with players and coaches before making a final determination.

Devajit Saikia, BCCI secretary, will be in London for the Lord's Test this week. Discussions involving players, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar are expected to occur during or after the match. A response to SLC's request is anticipated following these crucial consultations.

If the BCCI approves SLC's proposal, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, iconic figures in Indian cricket, are likely to participate in the ODIs. The initial schedule included six white-ball matches in Bangladesh from August 17th to 31st, but the series was postponed to the following year due to scheduling conflicts.

Asia Cup Decision Imminent

A final decision regarding the Asia Cup is anticipated in the next few days. This hinges on the BCCI's stance on the continental championship, which involves Pakistan.

As the tournament's host, the BCCI will make the ultimate decision, guided by the Indian government's advice. The Asia Cup is tentatively scheduled for September 10th to 28th, pending government approval.