Tamim Iqbal, the ODI captain of Bangladesh, has announced his retirement from international cricket.

In a surprise move, last night, Tamim called for a personal press conference today and bid farewell to international cricket.

“The match I played against Afghanistan is the final match of my career," Tamim declared at a hotel in Chattogram, his hometown.

Also read: Tamim determined to play despite fitness concerns in Afghanistan Series Opener

"I have been contemplating this decision for a long time and have discussed it with my family,” the star cricketer said.

During the retirement announcement, Tamim appeared visibly moved, wiping away tears.

"I believe this is the right time to say goodbye," he said. "I am grateful to many. I have often mentioned that I play cricket to fulfill my father's dream. I don't know how proud I have made him over the last 16 years."

Also read: Every match is a tough match in the World Cup: Tamim Iqbal

Tamim showed emotional distress while expressing these sentiments, frequently wiping his eyes.

"I want to thank all my team-mates from the youth team to national team, coaches, BCB officials, my family members, and those who have been with me through my long journey. They kept faith in me,” the ODI skipper said.

He also thanked fans for their support throughout his long journey in international cricket.

In the past few days, Tamim found himself embroiled in controversy. Prior to the first ODI against Afghanistan, he had mentioned that he was not fully fit but would play the match and assess his fitness thereafter.

This comment sparked controversy, with even the BCB president, Nazmul Hasan, criticizing Tamim's statement in an interview with a Bangla Daily newspaper. Nazmul stated that even Bangladesh's head coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, was unhappy with Tamim's comment before the match.

Also read: Tamim Iqbal ruled out of Afghanistan Test

Tamim has been grappling with various injury issues for a significant period. He missed the Test match against Afghanistan last month due to an injury. Moreover, he was not in optimal fitness ahead of the first ODI against Afghanistan, which took place on July 5th in Chattogram.

"I have always tried to give my best throughout my career," added Tamim, regarded as one of the best openers produced by Bangladesh. "I am unsure of how much I have achieved. But whenever I stepped onto the field, I gave it my all."

Tamim made his international debut in February 2007 against Zimbabwe. Since then, he has established himself as one of Bangladesh's premier batters. Accumulating over 15,000 runs in international cricket—70 Tests, 241 ODIs, and 78 T20Is—Tamim holds the record for the most centuries by any Bangladeshi cricketer, with 25 centuries to his name.

Also read: Taskin ruled out, Tamim uncertain as Tigers set to take on Ireland in one-off Test

He played a vital role in elevating Bangladesh's standing in ODIs. His retirement from international cricket, just a few months before the upcoming World Cup, will undoubtedly be felt by the Bangladesh team.

The left-handed batter had previously retired from T20Is last year, but he had continued to play ODIs and Tests.