Half a century in cricket: Gazi Ashraf ready to leave BCB role

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief Selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu is reportedly not planning to continue in his role, with his two-year contract set to expire at the end of February, BCB Cricket Operations Committee Chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim confirmed to Daily Sun.

“His contract ends this month, so naturally this would mark the end of his tenure,” Fahim said when asked about the development. “We will have to discuss whether to offer him an extension or look for a new appointment,” he added.

Former Bangladesh captain Gazi Ashraf, who has also served as a BCB director and team manager, was appointed Chief Selector in February 2024, following the departures of Minhajul Abedin Nannu and Habibul Bashar Sumon from their roles.

Over the course of nearly five decades of service to Bangladesh cricket, Gazi Ashraf has been widely regarded as one of the game’s most dedicated servants in the country.

Now, with a career spanning close to 50 years, Gazi Ashraf is looking to step away from cricket. While he may remain in some capacity until December, it is clear that one of Bangladesh cricket’s most respected figures is approaching the conclusion of his remarkable journey.

“It was on the 5th of February when I sent my letter to the BCB,” Gazi Ashraf told Daily Sun on Monday. “I felt it was important to inform the board in a timely manner. Usually, these types of positions are renewed depending on performance, but the truth is, I won’t be able to continue. From next January, I will be completely occupied with personal matters and family commitments,” he said.

Gazi Ashraf detailed his availability for the remainder of the year. “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 the United States. So even this year, I won’t be fully available to the board in that capacity. I’ve informed the board about these constraints in case they are considering me. I am available until December, but I’ll be abroad for several weeks starting from late May or June/July,” he said.

He also added that if the BCB still wanted his services despite these constraints, discussions could be held, but he is prepared to step down at the end of his current contract.

“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. I won’t be able to dedicate the amount of time required for such a responsible position, plus my age is also a factor. At the same time, I want to express my intention to leave the post,” he said.

Reflecting on the length of his career, Gazi Ashraf appeared content and resolute about his decision.

“It’s also true that I played my first match back in 1977 — I think it was the 22nd of January. Well, maybe not quite 50 years. But whether it’s 49 years or whatever, I want to conclude my role in cricket. I have no further desire to hold any responsible position or be involved in the BCB in that way. Not just the BCB — I should say it’s the end of my time in cricket. Whether it’s 48 or 49 years, I’m done after this December,” he said.

He also clarified that a short-term extension could be possible if the board needed his services, but his preference is to leave on his own terms.

“If the BCB wants my services for another couple of months for some reason, I might be able to extend, but otherwise, I’m happy and ready to go on the 28th of February. My message is that I’d rather leave a contractual role happily,” he concluded.