Mushfiqur refuses to change his stance, adamant on not touring Pakistan

Bangladesh senior batsman Mushfiqur Rahim is adamant on his stance of not touring Pakistan for the one-off one-day International (ODI) and Test match between the two countries, scheduled to take place in Karachi next month.

Earlier this week, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Nazmul Hassan had urged the star batsman to change his mind and tour Pakistan in April. However, Mushfiqur has reiterated his explanation to skip the tour.

"I had already made my stance clear on whether I will go to Pakistan or not and they [BCB] had accepted it. There was an offer from PSL and I could have submitted my name there,’’ Mushfiqur was quoted as saying to NTV on Thursday. "I did not give my name there [PSL], so they [BCB] should have shown me more respect since even after knowing the current situation I did not submit my name. Things are pretty clear and it won't change in the future. I only have good wishes for those who travel there.’’

Mushfiqur hit an unbeaten 203 in Bangladesh's big win over Zimbabwe in the one-off Test in Dhaka but had cited safety concerns to skip the first two parts of a three-leg tour of Pakistan.

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Hassan told reporters that Mushfiqur had not informed the board of his decision about the final leg.

"But I hope he will go (to Pakistan)," Hassan said. "Every contracted player should go. Family is important for everybody, but country is more important."

Bangladesh felt the absence of Mushfiqur against Pakistan as they lost the three-match Twenty20 series 2-0 with one game washed out. The tourists then went down to an innings defeat in the first of the two Tests.

They will travel to Pakistan again on April 3 for one 50-over match and the second Test scheduled to be held in Karachi.

Hassan said Mushfiqur should take advice from his brother-in-law Mahmudullah Riyad — who led the T20 team in Pakistan and was part of the Test side as well — and other teammates before making his final decision.

"We've said we won't force anyone. But after speaking to all, I think he should go," said Hassan.

Bangladesh are keen to do well against Pakistan in the second Test, which is part of the ICC Test Championship.