The much-anticipated return of Indian cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the international stage now faces uncertainty, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet received the required clearance from the Government of India for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh.

This delay in approval has cast doubt over India’s scheduled ODI series against Bangladesh, which was expected to mark the comeback of two of the country’s most senior and celebrated cricketers after an extended break from white-ball formats.

No Government Clearance Yet for Bangladesh Tour

As per BCCI sources, the board is still waiting for a green signal from the Ministry of External Affairs and other concerned government bodies to send the Indian team to Bangladesh. Given the current diplomatic and security considerations, international tours often require official clearance, especially when it involves sensitive neighboring countries.

Despite having finalized the tentative tour schedule and squad, the lack of formal approval has put the series—and the return of Rohit and Kohli—in a state of limbo.

Why This Tour Matters for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

The upcoming ODI series in Bangladesh was expected to mark the official return of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to international cricket after a planned rest post the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. The duo had been out of India’s ODI setup for several months to manage workload and focus on their T20 and Test commitments.

This tour was being seen as a build-up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and their inclusion in the squad would have provided much-needed experience and leadership to the young team. Now, with the tour under a cloud of uncertainty, their comeback could be pushed further.

Current Scenario: Rohit and Kohli’s Return Hanging in the Balance

While both players have been training and are match-fit, their return is contingent on the BCCI’s tour plans materializing. The ODI series against Bangladesh was expected to begin in mid-July 2025, but as of now, no official dates have been confirmed due to pending clearance.

The delay raises questions over the preparation timeline for India’s white-ball side, which has been undergoing a transition phase with younger players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad being tested.

Implications for Team India’s ODI Strategy

Team India’s ODI lineup has been undergoing significant changes, especially after a mixed performance in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. With veterans like Rohit and Kohli potentially returning, the team was looking to strike a balance between experience and youth.

Their presence would also have helped stabilize the batting order, provide depth, and mentor younger players on challenging foreign tours. The Bangladesh series was seen as an ideal opportunity for this transition.

However, the ongoing delay not only affects individual player comebacks but also hampers team strategy and scheduling. The coaching staff, led by Rahul Dravid, now finds itself in a difficult position regarding team selection and training plans.

Security and Diplomatic Considerations May Be Causing Delay

Sources suggest that the delay in clearance might be linked to ongoing regional security assessments or diplomatic sensitivities. While there is no official statement yet, cross-border cricket tours often depend on multiple levels of approval beyond just cricketing logistics.

In the past, similar delays have occurred during tours to countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, especially when bilateral relations are under scrutiny.

No Official Statement from BCCI Yet

So far, the BCCI has not released any public statement confirming or denying the Bangladesh tour. Media queries regarding the team’s schedule, squad announcement, or venue details remain unanswered.

Insiders, however, confirm that the board is in active communication with government agencies and hopes to resolve the matter soon. A decision is expected within the first week of July 2025, failing which the series might be postponed or canceled altogether.

Fans Disappointed Over Rohit-Kohli Uncertainty

For millions of cricket fans in India and abroad, the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli was one of the most awaited events in Indian cricket this year. The two players, who have been the face of Indian cricket for over a decade, remain icons with unmatched fan followings.

Social media platforms are already flooded with reactions ranging from disappointment to speculation. Hashtags like #RohitComeback, #KohliReturns, and #IndiaVsBangladesh have started trending on X (formerly Twitter), with fans demanding clarity from the BCCI.

What’s Next for Indian Cricket if Tour Is Canceled?

If the Bangladesh series doesn’t go ahead, the Indian team’s next international assignment could be the home Test series later this year or participation in the Asia Cup 2025, depending on the finalized calendar.

For Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, this would mean an even longer break from competitive international cricket, potentially affecting their match fitness and rhythm before the Champions Trophy.

BCCI may consider organizing intra-squad matches, an India A tour, or a short bilateral series with another board to give game time to senior players and keep the team in shape.

As the situation stands, the ball is in the government’s court. Whether or not Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will return to international cricket in July depends entirely on diplomatic clearances. While the BCCI remains hopeful, time is ticking, and logistical preparations are already under pressure.

For now, Indian cricket fans, selectors, and players are all left waiting—and hoping—for a positive outcome.