Bangladesh cricket team received a major blow with their captain, Tamim Iqbal, bidding farewell to international cricket just three months before the highly anticipated ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The announcement came after Bangladesh’s defeat to Afghanistan in the first ODI of the three-match series, and it marks the end of Tamim’s illustrious 16-year-long career.
During an emotional press conference held in Chattogram, Tamim declared his retirement with immediate effect, leaving the team to search for a new leader ahead of the World Cup. Expressing his feelings, Tamim said, “This is the end for me. I have given my best. I am retiring from international cricket from this moment.”
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He expressed his gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, officials from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and his family, acknowledging their support throughout his journey. He expressed his appreciation for their faith in him, stating, “They kept faith in me.”
Tamim also extended his gratitude to the passionate fans who have consistently shown their love and support. Their unwavering encouragement inspired him to perform at his best for Bangladesh. In a humble request, Tamim asked for their prayers for the next phase of his life, saying, “Please keep me in your prayers.”
Since his international debut in 2007, Tamim Iqbal has represented Bangladesh in 70 Tests, 241 ODIs, and 78 T20Is.
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As a prolific left-handed opener, he has accumulated an impressive tally of over 15,000 runs in international cricket, including 25 centuries and 94 half-centuries. Notably, Tamim had previously retired from T20I cricket last year and played his final Test against Ireland in April.
With Tamim’s departure, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is yet to announce a successor for the 50-over format, leaving a void to be filled before the World Cup.
The team will undoubtedly feel the absence of their experienced captain, but they will have to rally together and find a suitable replacement to lead them in the tournament.
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As Bangladesh prepares for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the loss of Tamim Iqbal poses a significant challenge for the team. His retirement marks the end of an era and leaves a void in the squad that must be addressed promptly to maintain the team’s competitive edge.
