BCCI has reportedly agreed to expand India’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka in August to include additional T20Is. These extra fixtures are specifically intended to support relief and recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which struck the island nation in late 2025.
India schedule extra T20Is in Sri Lanka to aid cyclone-affected areas
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) chairman Shammi Silva confirmed that while the tour was originally centered around a two-match series for the ICC World Test Championship, the new T20Is will be integrated to help raise vital funds. These matches are expected to generate revenue through broadcasting rights and ticket sales, ensuring that public attention remains focused on the ongoing reconstruction work in cyclone-affected regions.
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The decision highlights the strong relationship between the two boards following a disaster that ranks among Sri Lanka's most destructive since the 2004 tsunami. Silva noted that the move reflects India’s commitment to standing with its neighbor during a period of immense humanitarian need, as the country works to rebuild infrastructure and support the hundreds of thousands displaced by the storm.
Interestingly, India had expressed a willingness to help even sooner, offering to tour for a two-match fundraising series as early as late December. However, those plans ultimately fell through due to the tight window for organization, logistical hurdles, and the inability to secure a broadcast partner on such short notice. By folding the matches into the scheduled August tour, both boards can now ensure a high-profile platform for the relief efforts.
“There was willingness from India to come down at the end of December to play two T20Is to raise funds, but there was simply no time to organise it, especially with no broadcaster available,” Silva said.
India's busy 2026 cricket calendar
India’s international calendar for 2026 is shaping up to be exceptionally demanding, anchored by three high-profile blocks of cricket. The year kicks off in January with a home white-ball series against New Zealand, consisting of three ODIs and five T20Is. This serves as a vital warm-up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Mid-year, the focus shifts overseas as the team travels to England for a comprehensive eight-match limited-overs tour in July.
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The year will conclude with a heavy mix of home and away cricket. Following a grueling October tour of New Zealand—featuring Tests, ODIs, and T20Is—India will return home in December to host Sri Lanka. This final assignment of the year will consist of three ODIs and three T20Is, rounding out a marathon 12 months of top-tier competition.