South Africa's tour of Bangladesh confirmed after security assesment
The first Test will take place in Dhaka from 21 to 25 October, while the second Test is scheduled for Chattogram from 29 October to 2 November.
The upcoming two-Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh is set to proceed as scheduled, following a comprehensive security evaluation by Cricket South Africa (CSA) experts.
A statement from CSA on Monday confirmed that the tour received approval after an "in-loco inspection" conducted by the board's operations manager, team security manager, safety and security consultant, and a representative from the South African Cricketers' Association. These officials visited Bangladesh last week and submitted their recommendations to the board based on their findings.
South Africa's squad is expected to arrive in Dhaka on 16 October, with the team announcement anticipated later today.
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series schedule
- 1st Test: 21-25 October, Dhaka
- 2nd Test: 29 October - 2 November, Chattogram
Concerns about the security situation in Bangladesh had arisen due to widespread anti-government protests in July and August, which resulted in the downfall of Sheikh Hasina's government. Subsequently, the women's T20 World Cup was relocated to the UAE. However, CSA sources indicated earlier this month that the situation in Bangladesh had "settled." They noted that the tour would not proceed if any security risks were identified.
With only six Test matches remaining in the current World Test Championship cycle, South Africa, who have already played six matches with two wins, three losses, and one draw, are currently positioned sixth in the points table. To have a chance of qualifying for next year's final at Lord's, they need to secure victories in at least five of their remaining matches. Throughout this cycle, South Africa's series have been limited to two Tests each, as CSA has prioritised the launch of their domestic T20 franchise competition, SA20, while implementing cost-cutting measures.
The last Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh took place in South Africa from March to April 2022. Meanwhile, South Africa's white-ball teams are currently competing in the UAE against Ireland.
