The anticipated return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the Indian cricket team following their recent departures from Test cricket may face an unexpected delay. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is currently awaiting government approval for the team's scheduled tour of Bangladesh, casting uncertainty over their participation.

Following their exit from T20I cricket last year and Test cricket in May 2025, fans have eagerly awaited Kohli and Sharma's next appearance in the India jersey. The tour of Bangladesh was slated to mark the beginning of their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with a three-match ODI series scheduled for August 17, 20, and 23, followed by T20Is on August 26, 29, and 31 in Mirpur and Chattogram.

However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam revealed that the BCCI has yet to officially confirm the tour, as it awaits government clearance. According to Hindustan Times, Aminul stated, "I have already spoken to the BCCI. The discussions have been positive. We are hopeful. The tour is scheduled [for next month], but they are awaiting some government approvals".

If the BCCI fails to secure the necessary government approvals, Kohli and Sharma's return to international cricket could be postponed until the tour of Australia in October, which includes three ODIs commencing on October 19.

Despite the uncertainty, the BCB remains optimistic about the tour, citing positive discussions with the BCCI. Aminul Islam indicated that discussions regarding alternative arrangements are underway, stating, "We're in talks with BCCI on possible alternatives. If not in August or September, we'll look for another feasible window".

The potential postponement raises concerns, given India's packed cricket calendar until January 2026, including the Champions Trophy and IPL 2026. If the August series is canceled, a suitable window for the Bangladesh tour may not be available until mid-2026, potentially causing a significant delay.

The tour of Bangladesh holds historical significance, as India has not won an ODI series on Bangladeshi soil since 2014. The return of experienced players like Sharma and Kohli was expected to strengthen the ODI team and potentially end the long wait for a series victory.

As the BCCI awaits government approval, the fate of the India vs. Bangladesh series hangs in the balance, leaving fans uncertain about when they will next see Kohli and Sharma in action for India.