A major cricket celebration in Bangladesh this month to mark 100 years since the birth of the country's founding president has been postponed because of the coronavirus epidemic, AFP reported.

“The decision to postpone the events was based on the general cautionary advice for the public from the government and international health agencies,” Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury said.

“We regret the inconveniences but at the same time hope that everyone concerned will understand our position as this is a major health issue across the globe and we cannot leave anything to chance,” he said.

BCB President Nazmul Hassan told reporters they would try to host the event at a later date.