In his first media interaction as the new Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief Selector, Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu stressed his expectation to work independently, without undue pressure from external forces.
This statement addressed concerns surrounding tension between coaches and selectors. During his previous tenure as Bangladesh coach, Chandika Hathurusinghe reportedly had a strained relationship with former chief selector Faruque Ahmed.
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“I will have freedom,” Lipu asserted. “I've discussed this with the board. Our goal is to uphold the highest international standards for selection.”
He also expressed optimism about the working partnership within the new selection panel. Though Gazi Ashraf has extensive experience with the BCB, he hasn't held a board position since 2013.
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When asked about potential conflicts with coaches, he responded, “The ball is yet to be delivered,” implying that he anticipates future discussions that may lead to friction with the coaching staff.
Newly appointed selector Hannan Sarkar, a veteran of age-level selection, attended the press conference alongside Gazi Ashraf. He expressed his eagerness to contribute his experience to the national team selection process.