BCB chief denies ‘personal interest’ being behind backing of Bangladesh tour of Pak

Dhaka - Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Mustafa Kamal has vehemently denied that his decision to go ahead with the Pakistan tour was due to a ‘personal interest’ and stressed that the step has been taken to maintain sound ties in the region, while keeping sporting culture alive in the country.

Kamal added that the series will go ahead only if the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave it clearance on the security situation in Lahore where the One-Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 will take place.

“It’s a goodwill tour and will help them bring back cricket in their region. But it’s also important for us. From our point of view, we can have players of their country take part in our domestic competitions, which will help our cricketers improve their game. It would be difficult to bring players from other countries because it won’t be cost effective. So it is important that we tour because ultimately we can have a good relationship with them,” The Express Tribune quoted Kamal, as saying.

His statement came after he came under scathing criticism for his ‘independent’ decision, which has been said to have been taken ‘out of personal interest’, but Kamal said that the tour confirmation came since he ‘had full confidence in the board directors’.

Kamal also rejected reports that an understanding had been reached, which would see the PCB back his nomination to the post of ICC vice-presidency, and in return, travel to Pakistan to help reviving international cricket.

“The tour will also help Bangladesh cricket. I can assure you that no deal has been made that I will become the [ICC] vice-president and in return Bangladesh will tour Pakistan. If any such thing happens and is leaked out, then that would be disgraceful for both boards,” he added.