The ninth edition of the Games had been due to take place predominantly in Dhaka from April 1 to 10, but has been put on hold because of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has caused significant disruption to sports events across the world.

Around 10,600 athletes, who were set to compete in a total of 396 medal events, have entered the Games.

BOA vice-president Bashir Ahmed, who leads the steering committee for the Games, said new dates would be communicated soon.

The outbreak of the virus, which has so far killed more than 7,900 people and infected more than 190,000 worldwide, has forced the postponement of numerous events, including World Championships and Olympic qualifiers.

Bangladesh has reported 10 cases of COVID-19 and zero deaths.

The Government in the country has ordered all those returning from foreign countries to go into quarantine as part of measures designed to combat the spread of the virus.

Health officials in Bangladesh have also advised people in the nation to avoid close personal contact such as touching, hugging and handshakes.

The BOA is due to mark the birth centenary of Bangladesh's first-ever President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, popularly dubbed with the title of "Bangabandhu", during the Games.