Mahmud reverses decision to retire?

Khaled Mahmud: 'I've retired...no, wait...sorry, I haven't' © Getty Images Enlarge

A day after Khaled Mahmud, the former Bangladesh captain, told BBC Sport of his decision to retire from international cricket, reports emerged from Bangladesh that Mahmud has denied it as speculation.

Mahmud told The Daily Star, "Hours after the BBC broke the news, I received several phone calls from the media to know whether the story was actually true or not. But I wish to state that I never officially wrote to the Bangladesh Cricket Board of my intention to quit the international game."

To further confuse matters, Mahmud then added, "However, I admit I told the BBC that I had made my mind up to quit the game but not right at the moment. I will likely announce my retirement in the next home game".

The next international fixture Bangladesh play at home is scheduled for April next year when Australia visit for a two-Test and three-one-day international series.

Mahmud had said to BBC Sport yesterday, "I think it's the perfect time to quit as I don't find a permanent place in the team these days." If, as seems likely, Mahmud has reversed his decision, it won't be the first time he has done it. In January 2004, after being dropped from the national squad ahead of Bangladesh's tour to Namibia and Zimbabwe, Mahmud announced his international retirement, only to go back on his decision within 48 hours.