The Sri Lankan-born Australian, apparently saddened by media outburst on the Ashraful issue, also categorically rubbished the widespread whisperings that he has developed bitter relationship with the 22-year-old batter.

"It's a committee decision. I am pretty sure you know this. It's sad they had to say what happened in any committee. We all have different ideas from time to time. We advance our arguments. At the end of any issue after speaking and giving a good hearing and good discussion, on any issue, then we have to make a decision," told the under-fire Bangladesh coach while talking to reporters during the Tigers' practice session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.

He, however, was diplomatic when asked whether he had any personal mission to convince the panel to take the tough decision.

"Once a decision is made, whether it is selection decision or anything else, it's a committee decision...in any discussion, some will say yes, some will say no, some not sure. How did this come about? This is a committee decision and everyone should stand by at the end of the day," he responded.

"I would be very wrong to now having said what I said. I'm a part of this committee and Faruque Ahmed is our spokesman as a chief selector. He came and gave it to you," he added.

The Bangladesh coach was not ready to make a direct comment when asked whether it was ethical to leak the details of selection committee meetings.

"I don't want to make any comment. I am here to do a job. I am part of this committee. I have my say where I can have a say. I can be forceful as I want or otherwise. Any issue that has been discussed as part of the selection process and the decision was made you are abide by them," replied Whatmore. "What I read in papers was not nice."

Whatmore was also dismissive of the notion that his relationship with Ashraful has deteriorated over the days.

"Absolutely not. I sent him a text message when he got his hundred (in the National Cricket League match). I have nothing, never had anything personal with him rather I am just upset that he has not done enough like he is upset. He is a very good player and just needs some time on way to regroup and get some runs. I don't have any extra package," he made clear.

Although he has clung to a policy of bringing back Ashraful's form by keeping him away from the team, the shrewd tactician agreed that it was not the only solution for the country's most talented batsman.

"I don't think it can be a permanent solution for him because he's got too much ability. We want very much from young Ash (Ashraful) but not every innings, we don't expect it. We just need a little more contribution. He is a full batsman and he doesn't have much bowling. Our team is now evolving and becoming now little bit multi-skill," he said.