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March 2, 2024
Tamim Iqbal, a cricketer renowned as one of the most iconic figures in Bangladesh’s cricketing history, has recently shared his thoughts on his future with the national team. In a candid discussion, he addressed his current situation following his exclusion from the 2023 ODI World Cup squad and his decision to opt out of the 2024 central contract list. Tamim provided detailed insights into the challenges he faces and the conditions that would need to be met for him to consider a return to international cricket.
His reflections shed light on the various factors he is weighing as he contemplates the next steps in his career. Tamim’s comments offer a deeper understanding of the considerations influencing his decision-making process, highlighting the complexities involved in his potential comeback to the national team and the future of his cricketing journey.
The former Bangladesh captain, Tamim Iqbal, made headlines last July when he announced his retirement from international cricket. However, this decision was reversed after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina intervened, urging him to reconsider. As a result, Tamim’s return was eagerly anticipated, with many expecting him to play a pivotal role for Bangladesh in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite these expectations, Tamim was ultimately left out of the squad. The then chief selector, Minhajul Abedin, explained that the decision was influenced by ongoing concerns about Tamim’s back issues, which were a significant factor in the selection process.
Later, Tamim Iqbal maintained that he would have been in peak condition for the World Cup if given the chance. Still, he was asked to relinquish his opening position and shift to the middle order. He claimed that although he decided to opt out of the tournament, he felt considerable pressure. The situation was further complicated by the well-known discord between Tamim and Shakib Al Hasan, who served as Bangladesh’s captain during the World Cup. Shakib had publicly criticized Tamim before the tournament, labeling him as ‘childish’ and ‘not a team player,’ which only intensified the strain between the two players and contributed to the overall tension surrounding Tamim’s absence from the squad.
After leading Fortune Barishal to their inaugural Bangladesh Premier League title on Friday, March 1, Tamim Iqbal emphasized that several key factors need to be addressed for him to consider a return to the national team.
Despite his success as the Player of the Series in BPL 2024, Tamim expressed that his comeback to international cricket is contingent on meeting certain conditions. He plans to make a final decision about his future in the sport after engaging in discussions with Gazi Ashraf Hossain, the chief selector of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and Jalal Yunus, the BCB operations chairman. These conversations will be crucial in shaping his next steps and potential reentry into the national team.
“I would like to say one thing clearly. For me to come back, many things have to be right otherwise there’s no point for me, to just come back and play. I am at a stage of my career where I would probably play for another two years. So I need to tell them such things and since I did not have a final talk with them, it won’t be appropriate for me to comment here,” Tamim stated during a press conference.
“I haven’t spoken with him (new chief selector) yet. I was in communication with Jalal bhai (Jalal Yunus). I was available for a talk but, unfortunately, we didn’t get the opportunity. I will be travelling abroad tomorrow morning and hopefully, after I return, we will sit,” The veteran wrapped up.
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