PCB proposes flying Bangladesh Test squad amid political turmoil

BCB is yet to respond to offer; the board recently delayed the departure of their A team to Pakistan by 48 hours

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proactively offered assistance to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) by proposing to fly out the Bangladesh Test squad to Rawalpindi.

This initiative is aimed at ensuring that the upcoming two-test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled to commence on August 21 in Rawalpindi, proceeds smoothly despite the political turmoil in Bangladesh.

The unrest in Bangladesh has been sparked by the resignation and subsequent departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading to concerns over the Bangladesh cricket team's travel arrangements for the series.

A PCB official, speaking to the Press Trust of India, revealed that the PCB is prepared to host the Bangladesh players for additional days and provide comprehensive training facilities in Rawalpindi to facilitate their preparation for the Test matches.

However, the BCB has yet to respond to this offer.

The situation remains fluid, as the BCB recently delayed the departure of their A team to Pakistan by 48 hours, further complicating the prospects of the series between the senior men’s teams.

Reports have emerged about attacks on the homes of senior players, heightening the crisis and casting doubts on the tour's viability.

Currently, the A team is expected to arrive in Pakistan on August 8, with the Test squad scheduled to follow on August 17. The first four-day match for the A team is set to begin on August 11.

A source within the PCB emphasized the board's commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with the BCB, acknowledging the difficulties posed by the current political climate.

“With the BCB president, Najmul Hosain Papon, also leaving the country, the board is not functioning normally,” the source stated