Gazi Ashraf Hossain unlikely to extend tenure as BCB chief selector

Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain is unlikely to continue in his role after the completion of his two-year tenure on February 28. 

A BCB official confirmed on Monday that Ashraf, who took over from Minhajul Abedin in February 2024, has already communicated his decision to the board, citing personal reasons and limited availability going forward. 

BCB’s current chief selector confirmed that he had formally informed the board earlier this month, as he felt that it was his moral responsibility.  

“I had sent the letter on 5th of February as I felt I should inform the board. Usually, these types of positions are renewed most of the time, depending on performance. But the truth is, I won’t be able to continue,” Ashraf was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

The former Bangladesh cricketer explained that family commitments and personal matters will prevent him from fulfilling the responsibilities attached to the role, or else he would have continued at the position.

“From next January, I will be completely occupied with personal matters and family commitments. Essentially, I am only available until December. Within that time, I’ll be out of the country for five or six weeks, likely heading to America. So even this year, I’m not available to the Board in that capacity. I’ve informed the Board about these constraints in case they are considering me,” he opined.

Despite his decision, Ashraf maintained that he remains open to discussions if the board is willing to retain him under the circumstances.

“If the Board is still interested despite these hurdles, we can talk. Otherwise, I am ready to step down on the 28th of February. That was the gist of my message (letter),” he said.

He further clarified that he wishes to step away on a good note rather than let the situation turn complicated.

“My message is that I’d rather leave a contractual role happily. There’s so much constant hassle involved, and I just don’t want to be part of it anymore, that’s it. I don’t want to leave the BCB on a sour note or after a disagreement,” he concluded.

With Ashraf’s tenure nearing its conclusion, the BCB is expected to take a call on the chief selector’s position in the coming days.