Bangladesh has suffered a big setback before of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, with skipper Tamim Iqbal retiring from international cricket.
Iqbal’s 16-year international career has come to an end, just 3-months ahead of the massive tournament.
In a press conference in Chattogram the day after Bangladesh’s loss to Afghanistan in the first ODI of the 3-match series, he declared his international retirement with immediate effect.
“This is the end for me,” a distressed Iqbal told reporters. I gave it my all. I gave it my all. “As of now, I am retiring from international cricket.”
“I want to thank all my colleagues, coaches, BCB officials, family members, and those who stayed with me throughout my long journey,” Iqbal said, thanking his teammates and coaching staff. They believed in me.”
He also acknowledged the audience, stating, “I also want to thank the audience.” Your love and trust in me encouraged me to do my very best for Bangladesh. I would want to request your prayers for the next phase of my life. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.”
Bangladesh’s hero made his international debut in 2007 and has played in 70 Tests, 241 ODIs, and 78 T20Is. The left-handed opener has amassed over 15,000 runs in international cricket, including 25 centuries and 94 half-centuries.
Iqbal retired from T20 international cricket last year and played his final Test against Ireland in April. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is yet to identify Tamim’s replacement in the 50-over format.
