Bangladesh explore a new bilateral window with Nepal

Bangladesh are exploring the possibility of playing a bilateral series against Nepal after receiving an invitation from the Nepal Cricket Association.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has responded positively to the proposal, although no dates, venue or format have been finalised. Discussions between the two Boards are continuing.

BCB cricket operations in-charge Shahriar Nafees said Bangladesh were interested in making the series happen within the current Future Tours Programme cycle, which runs through 2027.

The proposal comes at a time when Bangladesh already have a crowded international calendar. The Tigers are due to play Afghanistan in October before hosting the West Indies for a two- match Test series. Other international commitments are also expected during the current FTP cycle.

Finding a suitable window will therefore be the main challenge.

Nepal have been seeking more opportunities against established international teams as their cricket continues to develop. A bilateral series against Bangladesh would provide them with valuable exposure and could strengthen cricketing ties between the two South Asian countries.

For Bangladesh, the series could offer an opportunity to give players additional international experience while also building a closer relationship with an emerging cricket nation.

However, the BCB has not treated the proposal as a confirmed fixture. Nafees said the two Boards would continue discussions and make an announcement only when there is sufficient clarity over the schedule.

The talks nevertheless show that Bangladesh are open to expanding their bilateral commitments beyond the established Test-playing nations.

If the packed calendar allows a suitable window to be found, Nepal could become Bangladesh's next new bilateral opponent before the current FTP cycle ends in 2027.