Tamim Iqbal announces retirement: ‘My chapter in international cricket is closed’

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal on Friday has announced his retirement from international cricket.

In a Facebook post, Tamim wrote: “I have been away from international cricket for quite some time, and the distance will not be reduced. My chapter in international cricket is closed.”

Tamim had played 70 Tests, 243 ODIs and 78 T20Is for Bangladesh and has not played for the national team for more than a year.

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This is the second time Tamim has retired from international cricket, having previously called time on his career in 2023 in an emotional press conference. The 35-year-old then reversed his decision within 24 hours after intervention from Bangladesh’s now deposed prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

There were speculations that the 35-year-old might return for the Champions Trophy for one last dance. With 8,357 ODI runs to his name, Tamim is Bangladesh’s leading run-scorer in the ODIs.

“I have been contemplating this for a while. With the Champions Trophy ahead, I didn’t want any distractions surrounding me to disrupt the team’s focus,” he said.

“I stepped away from the national contract a long time ago, yet discussions about my return kept surfacing in the media.”

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“A player who has been out of the BCB contract for over a year doesn’t need to be a topic of discussion. I took my time and now feel the moment has come,” he said.

Tamim thanked captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto and the selection panel for their support.

“Captain Nazmul Hossain sincerely requested me to return, and I am thankful that the selectors believe I am still capable. However, I listened to my heart,” he said.

On his omission from the 2023 ODI World Cup, the southpaw said: “What happened before the World Cup was a shock. I wasn’t sidelined for cricketing reasons. Fans everywhere expressed their desire to see me back in the national team, and I deeply appreciate their love.”

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Tamim also said how his son wanted to see him in the national colours but he insists the youngster will understand with the time.

“My son told his mother he wanted to see me in the national jersey. While I’m sorry to disappoint him and the fans, I told him, ‘When you grow older, you’ll understand your dad’s decision,'” he said.

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