In anticipation of New Zealand’s forthcoming tour of Bangladesh, a three-member delegation from the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) visited Dhaka for a detailed inspection before returning home last night. This was confirmed by Shahriar Nafis, Manager of the Cricket Operations Department at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The delegation conducted a thorough survey of the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Wednesday and proceeded to inspect potential venues in Chattogram the following day. Such visits are standard protocol ahead of international tours, allowing the visiting team and security personnel to evaluate match and practice facilities, accommodation arrangements, transport routes to and from the stadium, and overall safety measures.
According to officials, this visit was part of a broader coordination process between the BCB and NZC to ensure that all logistical and operational aspects of the tour meet international standards. Preliminary discussions between the two boards have already resulted in a tentative schedule for the series.
Under the current plan, the New Zealand team is scheduled to arrive in Bangladesh on 13 April 2026. The tour will commence with a three-match One Day International (ODI) series, with all fixtures to be held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
One Day International Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (BST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 17 April | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 1:30 PM |
| 2nd | 20 April | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 1:30 PM |
| 3rd | 23 April | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 1:30 PM |
Following the ODI series, it is expected that the tour may continue with Twenty20 fixtures, although the precise schedule and venues for the shorter format are yet to be finalised.
Shahriar Nafis emphasised the importance of the delegation’s visit, stating: “The inspection ensures that all security, accommodation, and venue arrangements meet international standards. It also allows both boards to finalise the schedule and address any operational concerns ahead of the tour.”
This series comes immediately after Pakistan’s recent tour of Bangladesh, providing local fans with a continuous run of high-profile international cricket. The tour is anticipated to be a key event in Bangladesh’s cricket calendar, offering players valuable exposure and supporters an exciting display of competitive cricket.
Preparations are already underway to facilitate practice sessions and ensure that both teams can perform under optimal conditions. With all ODI matches scheduled in Mirpur, spectators can expect high-quality cricket action in a familiar setting.
As the series draws near, the anticipation among fans and players alike continues to build, highlighting the growing significance of Bangladesh as a host nation for major international cricket tours.