Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Faruque Ahmed attended the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal between South Africa and New Zealand in Lahore yesterday. During New Zealand's innings, he spoke to Bangladeshi journalists, including The Daily Star's Samsul Arefin Khan, on diplomatic ties with cricket boards and BCB's stance on senior players after Bangladesh's group-stage exit. Here are excerpts from the interview:

The Daily Star (DS): Could you tell us more about your trip to Pakistan following Dubai visit?

Faruque Ahmed (FA): The invitation came from the ICC. I feel it's an opportunity not only to watch the games but also to develop cricketing ties. Apart from that, I'm also looking to secure a few tours in between. I have previously mentioned a white-ball series against Pakistan outside the FTP schedule. I also came here to confirm that series. [In Dubai] my main focus was on strengthening ties with subcontinental teams.

DS: You came to Pakistan at a time when a fresh Bangladesh Premier League-related controversy involving Chittagong Kings brand ambassador Shahid Afridi has emerged.

FA: Actually, the board doesn't have a three-party deal. We only have contracts with franchises and players. It is entirely the franchise's decision whom they bring as a brand ambassador. However, when a renowned player like Shahid Afridi makes such comments about a franchise, the blame often falls on the entire nation.

If players' payments are not made properly, the board can take a stance. However, in such cases, the board cannot do much beyond pushing the franchise or being more cautious about them in the future.

DS: Is there any chance BCB will discuss with Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad their final call on international retirement?

FA: Until now, we haven't had any discussions with them. But I feel the decision should come from their end. We won't play ODIs until May-June, so we have time to discuss the matter.

DS: You are planning too many series, but the players are not getting breathing space, which affects their performances in big tournaments. This was evident in the Champions Trophy, where they played just days after the BPL.

FA: It's a valid point, but the FTP and other commitments are extremely hectic. I don't know how the players manage it. I was thinking that if we could separate white-ball and red-ball squads, it might help players adjust better.

But as you said, ICC events are the platform where teams showcase their progress over the years. These events draw the most attention, and people talk about them, so performing well in them is crucial. Let's be honest -- our last three ICC events didn't go well. That's a fact. We need to try and do better.