Bashar quits as ODI captain

Dhaka, May 28 (UNI) Struggling Habibul Bashar has stepped down as captain of Bangladesh One-day side, but expressed desire to continue playing in both version of the game.

Thus he paved the way for young Mohammed Ashrafful to take over the job for Bangladesh's forthcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Announcing his decision yesterday after their humiliating defeat at the hands of India in the final Test, Bashar said, ''I am stepping down as the captain of the ODI side. But I would like to continue to serve the team as a player.'' ''It has been a very enriching experience as captain of the Bangladesh ODI side and I will remember every bit of it,'' he added.

However, the 34-year-old right-handed batsman was quick to point out that his decision to quit captaincy was only from the shorter version of the game and he still wishes to lead the team in Tests.

''I will continue to be the captain of the Test side, if the team management wants,'' Bashar said.

UNI