Dhaka – Nizam Uddin Chowdhury, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), on Tuesday said they are still optimistic about Zimbabwe’s participation in the proposed tri-series which is scheduled in September. “We have a series against Afghanistan in September-October. Zimbabwe requested us to include them in the limited-overs part of that series. But now there is a doubt about their participation as ICC had imposed a suspension on them,” Nizam Uddin told the media on Tuesday.
“We are still optimistic about Zimbabwe’s participation in this series. At the same time, we are in discussion win Afghanistan as well. If Zimbabwe fails to make it to Bangladesh, we will continue only with Afghanistan,” BCB CEO added.
In early July this year, ICC suspended Zimbabwe with immediate effect due to failing to fulfill their obligation to provide a process for free and democratic elections and to ensure that there is no government interference in its administration for cricket.
“There is no restriction for Zimbabwe to participate in any international game. But they will not be able to play in any ICC event due to the suspension,” Nizam Uddin added.
Nizam further said “Zimbabwe cricket authority is talking to their government to keep the series on. We hope that they will come up with a final decision within two-three days.”
BCB’s CEO said also that Zimbabwe were Bangladesh’s regular opposition during early cricketing days of the Tigers. Keeping this truth in mind, BCB is trying to stand beside Zimbabwe cricket.
“We are waiting for Zimbabwe’s move for the series. We will finalise the schedule of the event only after getting their decision,” he said.UNB
