The out-of-form right-hander, who scored only 68 runs in four innings of two Tests and 18 in two one-day matches in the just concluded home series against Australia, has signed for Rainhill Cricket Club in Liverpool.

"This is for the first time I am going to play league cricket abroad. I don't know how competitive the league is but my main concern is to score runs, nothing else," said Ashraful, who was rested for the second one-dayer against Australia for poor form.

"As per the contract I will play for the club till September but I will be available for national duty during this period," he informed.

There is hardly any doubt about his talent and ability, but the inconsistency in his batting is a serious issue.

"I don't know where the problem lies. On most occasions I had a good start but failed to capitalise. I think playing for Rainhill will be an opportunity for me to gain consistency. I believe that it is always exciting and challenging to score runs in English conditions," said Ashraful, who have played some brilliant knocks in both version of the game.