As the Bangladesh cricket team landed in India for a multi-format series, social media platforms were flooded with a growing wave of discontent. The hashtag ‘Cancel_Bangladesh_Series’ quickly began trending, with many fans voicing their opposition to the scheduled matches.
The series, set to feature two Test matches and three T20 Internationals, is slated to begin on September 19 in Chennai, but controversy is already brewing.
Tensions over Bangladesh violence
The protests are not solely about cricket. A right-wing group, the Hindu Mahasabha, has threatened to protest against the Bangladesh team due to recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Incidents of religious violence have sparked outrage, with claims of atrocities inflicted on the Hindu minority in the neighbouring country.
The Mahasabha has specifically targeted the second Test match in Kanpur, set for September 27, vowing to disrupt the event unless their demands are addressed.
Mahasabha’s vice president, Jaiveer Bharadwaj, stated, “Hindus are being massacred in Bangladesh…temples are being destroyed. Therefore, the Hindu Mahasabha has decided that the India-Bangladesh cricket match in Gwalior will be opposed.”
This strong stance has raised concerns about the safety of the series, particularly in Kanpur.
BCCI monitors situation
In response to these growing threats, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is closely monitoring the situation. While there have been rumours of moving the second Test to Indore, BCCI officials have confirmed that there are no current plans to change the venue. A senior BCCI official told SportsTak, “The match is not going anywhere—it will be held in Kanpur. However, we will continue to keep an eye on developments, both in Kanpur and at the other venues.”
Local authorities are working in coordination with the BCCI to ensure the safety of both teams and the smooth execution of the matches. The BCCI is committed to moving forward with the series but is prepared to take necessary steps if tensions escalate.
India vs Bangladesh Test series amid controversy
The first of the India vs Bangladesh two-match Test series is scheduled to begin on September 19 in Chennai. This series will mark the start of India’s long Test season, which will feature 10 matches over five series. The BCCI recently announced a 15-member squad for the first Test, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant returning to the side, and left-arm fast bowler Yash Dayal receiving his maiden call-up.
Despite the controversies surrounding the Bangladesh series, both teams are preparing for what should be an exciting cricket contest. However, the looming protests and political tensions are casting a shadow over the much-anticipated series. Fans and organisers alike will be keeping a close eye on the developments as the series kicks off.
