Tamim Iqbal withdraws retirement decision after meeting Bangladesh PM: Details
In a shocking turn of events, veteran Bangladeshi cricketer Tamim Iqbal has decided to withdraw his retirement from international cricket. Tamim on Thursday, announced his retirement from international cricket after a lean patch and a spell of serious injury concerns. However, he has decided to take back his retirement plea after meeting the Bangladesh PM and will continue to represent Bangladesh. Here's more.
Bangladesh PM convinces Tamim to withdraw retirement
Tamim announced his retirement on Thursday and then he flew from Chattogram to Dhaka. The veteran was invited by the Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a meeting. Former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza was also present in the meeting along with BCB president Nazmul Hassan and they convinced him to continue playing for Bangladesh. Hence he has withdrawn his retirement from international cricket.
Bangladesh's highest run-scorer in ODIs
Tamim is Bangladesh's highest run-getter in ODIs with 8,313 runs in 241 games at 36.62 (100s: 14, 50s: 56). His tally of 5,134 runs in 70 Tests at 38.89 is only second to Mushfiqur Rahim (5,553) among Bangladesh batters (100s: 10, 50s: 31). With 1,758 in 78 games at 24.08, Tamim is Bangladesh's third-highest run-getter in T20Is (50s: 7, 100: 1).
A look at Tamim's verdict during the announcement
"This is the end for me. I have given my best. I have tried my best. I am retiring from international cricket at this moment," an emotional Tamim said. "It was not a sudden decision. I was thinking about the different reasons. I don't want to mention here. I have spoken to my family members about it." "I thought this is the right time."
BCB President Nazmul Hassan wanted Tamim to reconsider his decision
BCB President Nazmul was very shocked when he heard about Tamim's retirement call. "I did not have any clue that this kind of decision can come," he said. He highlights Tamim's importance with the Asia Cup and World Cup lined up this year. I would be happy if he changes his mind as he is an important member of the ODI side," Nazmul highlighted.
I am withdrawing my retirement: Tamim
After meeting the Bangladesh PM, Tamim was a different person as he revealed that he couldn't say no to the most important person in Bangladesh. The honorable Prime Minister invited me to her residence this afternoon," Tamim said. "We had a long discussion after which she instructed me to return to cricket. I am withdrawing my retirement," he said.
Tamim will be out of action for six weeks
Despite withdrawing his retirement, Tamim will not immediately return to action. He has been suffering from various injuries in recent times. Therefore he has been handed a six-week break to recuperate and will lead the team again when he is mentally and physically ready.
