In anticipation of the New Zealand cricket team’s forthcoming tour of Bangladesh, a three-member delegation from the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) visited Dhaka but returned last night after completing their inspections. This was confirmed by Shahriar Nafis, Manager of Cricket Operations at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
During their short visit, the delegation carried out a thorough inspection of the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Wednesday, followed by a visit to the proposed venue in Chittagong the next day. Such visits are a routine part of preparations before an international series, allowing visiting teams and security personnel to evaluate match and practice venues, accommodation facilities, transport routes to and from stadiums, and overall safety arrangements.
The NZC representatives’ visit is part of a continuous collaborative process between the two boards to ensure a smooth and secure tour. According to BCB officials, preliminary discussions between the boards have already resulted in a largely agreed schedule for the series.
Under the current plan, the New Zealand team is scheduled to arrive in Bangladesh on 13 April 2026, marking the start of a highly anticipated series. The tour will commence with a three-match One Day International (ODI) series, with all matches slated to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur.
Bangladesh vs New Zealand ODI Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Local Start Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 17 April 2026 | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 10:00 AM |
| 2nd | 20 April 2026 | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 10:00 AM |
| 3rd | 23 April 2026 | Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur | 10:00 AM |
The ODI series is expected to set the tone for the remainder of the tour, which may include additional formats such as Test matches and Twenty20 encounters, though official confirmation from both boards is still pending. The series offers a significant opportunity for Bangladeshi cricket to showcase its growing infrastructure and organisational capabilities, particularly as all three matches are being hosted at the premier Mirpur stadium, ensuring accessibility and a concentrated fan experience.
BCB officials emphasised that the main objective of the NZC delegation’s visit was to ensure that logistical arrangements, player safety, and venue preparedness meet international standards. Fans in Bangladesh are eagerly anticipating the series, expecting high-quality cricket following the conclusion of the Pakistan tour. The series is anticipated to draw substantial local and international attention, highlighting Bangladesh’s readiness to host world-class cricket competitions.
With the arrival of New Zealand, Bangladeshi cricket will enter a new phase of international competition this April, promising excitement for both players and supporters.