On Thursday, Bangladesh cricket fans received a jolting surprise as captain Tamim Iqbal announced his retirement from international cricket. The shocking announcement came in the wake of Bangladesh’s defeat against Afghanistan in the first ODI of their three-match series. Considering Bangladesh’s preparations for the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup, the defeat and Iqbal’s subsequent announcement had a significant impact on the team.
During an emotionally charged press conference, Tamim stated, “This is the end for me. I have given my best.” He further explained that his decision wasn’t impulsive but a result of careful deliberation. The 34-year-old was explicit that the match against Afghanistan marked his last international game and that his retirement was effective immediately.
However, in a dramatic twist of events, Tamim appears to have reversed his retirement decision. As per the Dhaka Tribune, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed that Tamim had withdrawn his retirement following an intervention from Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Tamim Iqbal withdraws international retirement on Bangladeshi PM’s request
The report further revealed that Tamim was invited to meet the Prime Minister on Friday afternoon. Accompanied by his wife, former captain Mashrafe Mortaza, and BCB president Nazmul Hassan, he visited the Prime Minister’s residence for the meeting. As a result, Tamim decided to withdraw his retirement, but he will take a one-and-a-half-month break before returning for the Asia Cup, scheduled to start from August 31.
Prior to this upheaval, Tamim had already decided to step back from T20Is in June 2022. His latest decision to retire from ODIs and Tests had further saddened his fans, especially considering his remarkable record in ODIs. As Bangladesh’s most successful ODI player, Tamim had scored 8313 runs from 241 ODIs at an average of 36.62. This impressive record includes 14 centuries and 56 fifties.
During his tenure as a captain, Tamim led the Bangladesh side in 37 ODIs, of which they emerged victorious in 21 matches. This makes his win percentage stand at 60, the highest among all 15 captains who have led the national side. This includes the most-capped Mashrafe Mortaza, whose win percentage was slightly lower at 58.13.
In conclusion, Tamim’s abrupt retirement announcement followed by the sudden reversal has indeed been a rollercoaster ride for fans and the Bangladesh cricket team alike. While his initial decision to retire left many in shock, his subsequent U-turn following the intervention by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has provided a relief to his fans and teammates. Now, all eyes will be on Tamim as he gears up for the Asia Cup after his brief break. His leadership and prowess will be crucial as Bangladesh seeks to bolster their preparation for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
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Imagine going back to a sport that you’ve just renounced for various reasons while shedding a few tears during the press conference yesterday because the PM of the country wants you to. Let him be. https://t.co/LprDsyoqzm
Advertisement— Satish Kolluri (@satishkolls) July 7, 2023
Great to hear …
He can play for #WorldCup2023 ✨️🔥🔥 https://t.co/V5ERa9CKJ6Advertisement— Fan Boy of Vijay ❤🔥 (@Dhamo34) July 7, 2023
That's why I never tweet appreciation posts when cricketers from Bangladesh and Pakistan retire for the first time 😛 https://t.co/iOTx8RuxQU
Advertisement— Pratik Dogra (@beingdogra) July 7, 2023
pls Modi ji we need you to matter into your hands and ask dhoni to withdraw his decision too, today of all days is a good day to do so 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 https://t.co/Yh7jgugKuT
Advertisement— VibhØr (@VibhorDaga) July 7, 2023
Thank you #ShaikhHaseena https://t.co/nBNY5qzLov
Advertisement— Umesh🧢 (@Neutral_Cricket) July 7, 2023
Welcome back Khan Shaheb🔥 https://t.co/rjlf5zyoy0
Advertisement— Mahi (@kexo654) July 7, 2023
Pls call South Africa Prime Minister regarding @ABdeVilliers17 retirement too https://t.co/ZM1txH3zSv
Advertisement— CEASEFIRE (@strangesk_2) July 7, 2023
Then there is South African politicians 🚶🚶 https://t.co/eo660AY2Ty
Advertisement— Dark Devil_மதுரைக்காரன்/Stans AB🛐 (@madurakaranda2) July 7, 2023
