The Indian cricket team faces an already packed calendar, but it could become even more demanding as the BCCI considers requests to add more ODI matches in preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. According to an Indian Express report, several cricket boards, including England, New Zealand, Ireland, and Sri Lanka, have asked the BCCI to expand the number of ODIs in bilateral series, seeking financial and competitive benefits.

While T20Is are typically seen as lucrative for bilateral series due to large crowds and frequent play, the situation differs for the Indian team. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India's most prominent cricketers, now play only ODIs. Their presence is expected to attract substantial fan interest in the 50-over format in the coming months.

Cricket Ireland, according to the report, has proposed a three-match series against India this summer, coinciding with India's white-ball series in England. However, the format and venue—whether in Ireland or a location such as Southampton—remain undecided.

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SLC and NZC also ask for extra ODIs

The upcoming white-ball series against England currently comprises three ODIs and five T20Is, but this may change, as it could mark the last series for Kohli and Sharma in England. Schedule updates could add two more ODIs, though it is unclear if two T20Is would be removed to accommodate this change.

In August, Shubman Gill's team will play a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, including a day-night match at the Sinhalese Sports Club. SLC has also urged the BCCI to add white-ball matches, as the series was originally scheduled for January but postponed.

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With uncertainty surrounding white-ball series against Bangladesh and Afghanistan in the UAE later this year, the Indian team could accommodate extra matches. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has stressed playing more ODIs, especially after losing the home series to New Zealand, to better understand the format's tempo.

India will conclude the year with an all-format series in New Zealand for the first time in six years. The schedule currently features two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, but New Zealand is considering two additional ODIs, which would add to the team's workload.