Former Bangladesh cricket captain Habibul Bashar is uncertain about applying for a position on the national selection panel following the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s decision to publicly invite applications for the first time. The current chief selector, Gazi Ashraf Hossain, is stepping down after completing his two-year term, leading to two vacancies on the selection panel with a deadline for submissions set for March 8.
Bashar, who previously served as a selector for eight years under different chief selectors before the panel was restructured in February 2024, is evaluating his options due to his existing responsibilities within the board’s game development program. He mentioned that he needs to understand why he should apply while currently working with the BCB before making a final decision.
The move to open the selection panel positions to applicants was explained by BCB cricket operations chairman Nazmul Abedin as a step towards transparency and expanding the talent pool. The board aims to ensure fairness in the selection process by considering all qualified individuals and identifying potential selectors for future roles.
Nazmul emphasized the long-term vision of the board to enhance its selection structure across various levels of the game, indicating a need for more selectors in the future. While leadership qualities are crucial in the selection process, former national captains are often preferred for such roles due to their experience and knowledge, according to Nazmul.
Acknowledging the preference for former national captains in leadership roles, Nazmul highlighted the importance of qualities like leadership, experience, and knowledge in selecting suitable candidates for the panel. The BCB granted Ashraf a one-month extension to maintain continuity while the process of appointing his successor and expanding the selection panel progresses.
