Web Desk
Former Bangladesh one-day captain Tamim Iqbal has announced his retirement from international cricket, stating that he did not want to be a distraction for the team ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Tamim made his international debut in 2007 in an ODI against Zimbabwe in Harare. Over the course of his career, he played 243 ODIs, 70 Tests, and 78 T20 internationals (T20Is).
Although Tamim had previously retired from international cricket before the 2023 50-over World Cup in India, he reversed his decision within a day. However, he missed out on the World Cup due to a back injury.
The 35-year-old scored more than 15,000 runs across all formats and accumulated 25 centuries, the most by any Bangladesh batter. His last appearance for the national team was in their 2-0 ODI series defeat to New Zealand in September 2023.
In a post on social media, Tamim said, “I have been away from international cricket for a long time, and that distance will remain. My chapter in international cricket is over.”
He added, “I have been thinking about this for a long time. With a major event like the Champions Trophy approaching, I don’t want to be the center of attention, which could cause the team to lose focus.”
The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, with Bangladesh in Group A alongside hosts and defending champions Pakistan, New Zealand, and India.
Tamim also mentioned that Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto had asked him to return to the team for the Champions Trophy, and discussions had taken place with the selection committee. “I am grateful to them for considering me for the team. However, I have listened to my heart,” he concluded.
