Bangladesh batsman Mushfiqur Rahim is adamant to stick to his decision of not touring Pakistan and the rumor is rife that the decision may cost his place in the ongoing series although the selectors denied any such claim.
Bangladesh team, which will complete their third phase of their three-phase tour in Pakistan to play an ODI and the second Test match in April, are currently playing a home against Zimbabwe and Mushfiq faced the question of his availability on the tour ahead of the second ODI against Zimbabwe that will take place on Tuesday.
“He is supposed to play tomorrow,” said chief selector Minhajul Abedin on Monday when he was asked about Mushfiq issue.
Mushfiq, who scored a double century against Zimbabwe in their one-off Test last month, did not travel with Bangladesh team to Pakistan in the first two phases when the side was heavily beaten in T20 series and the first Test.
After finalizing the itinerary of Pakistan Bangladesh Cricket Board gave the option to players of opting out from the series at their will as Pakistan is still considered to play cricket for many around the world. Mushfiq was the only player to opt out citing his family’s fear but BCB president Nazmul Hassan recently criticized the diminutive cricketer for taking that decision.
The sources of the team confirmed the most successful batsman in Bangladesh will be dropped as per the instruction of board high-ups in the remained of the Zimbabwe series but Dhaka Tribune got no confirmation on it till the report was filed.