Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal, a regular face in the commentary box during the ongoing India-Bangladesh series, expressed concerns that infrastructural shortcomings are hindering the development of Bangladesh cricket. Tamim gave an interview to the Indian sports magazine, Sportstar, where he candidly discussed his retirement, potential return to international cricket, his relationship with Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's continued struggles in Test matches, and the factors impeding the cricketing progress of Bangladesh. In the extensive interview, Tamim also addressed the possibility of a Bangladeshi coach leading the national team. The former captain, who has scored over 15,000 runs and 25 centuries in international cricket, said that the lack of adequate facilities in Dhaka is a big factor to the slow development of Bangladesh cricket. “I made my debut in 2006-2007, and as we speak in 2024, not a single new training facility has been developed in Dhaka over the past 17 years,” Tamim said while discussing the areas Bangladesh cricket needs to focus on for growth. “Some aspects in Bangladesh are fine, but most need to change.” Tamim was critical of the board's financial management. The previous board president, Nazmul Hasan, often boasted about the board having hundreds of crores of taka in the bank to indicate the financial strength of the board. However, Tamim believes that instead of accumulating money in bank accounts, the board should invest it in developing infrastructure. “The funniest thing is that when the BCB claims to have Rs 1200 crore in its bank account, it feels like a slap in the face,” Tamim said. “There shouldn’t be 1200 crore sitting idle; there should be 200 crore in the account, and the remaining 1000 should be invested in developing infrastructure.” He added that corporate entities typically reinvest their earnings to facilitate growth, something the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) fails to do. The left-handed batter also questioned the absence of another facility in Dhaka comparable to the one in Mirpur and advocated for the need for good quality pitches across the country. “You definitely need a facility like Mirpur, and while I’m okay with playing to your strengths on certain pitches, it’s crucial to produce quality wickets at the domestic level as well,” he said. “This way, you can test your cricketers and prepare them for the international stage.” Regarding his potential return to international cricket, Tamim said that there needs to be a clear path and purpose for him to consider it. He neither explicitly ruled out a return nor definitively confirmed it. On his relationship with Shakib, Tamim remained somewhat vague and did not explicitly state what transpired between them to cause their relationship to deteriorate. Furthermore, one of Bangladesh's all-time best batters expressed his belief that Bangladesh currently lacks someone capable of being the head coach of the national team. He suggested that the board should recruit coaching staff for the national team at a 30:70 ratio, with 30% being foreign coaches in top positions and the remaining 70% being local officials, allowing them to develop for a better future. Tags: BCB, Bangladesh cricket, Tigers, Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan

The special committee, constituted by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in late November last year, convened with Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal to analyze the disappointing performance of the Bangladesh team in the World Cup. However, the committee has not disclosed the outcome of these discussions. Enayat Hossain Siraj, the convenor of the committee, indicated that the media department of BCB would host a press conference to unveil the results. BPL 2024: Chattogram's winning streak continue “These matters are not something that can be divulged to the media at this moment,” Enayet Hossain stated during a media interaction in Sylhet, where Shakib and Tamim are busy for their teams in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). “Because this has been handled very confidentially. When the time is right, the information will be shared collectively, and the public will also be informed. We have held separate discussions with both Shakib and Tamim,” he added. BCB to Discuss Bangladesh’s World Cup Disappointment with Shakib It is understood that the BCB president is set to travel to Indonesia for a meeting of the Asian Cricket Council, with his return expected in early February. The BCB is anticipated to conduct a board meeting at that time, during which the findings of the special committee regarding Bangladesh's performance in the 2023 World Cup will be disclosed. Enayet Hossain confirmed that the committee he leads has completed its work, and they will submit their findings to the board. This committee has two more members— Akram Khan and Mahbub Anam. West Indies Pull Off an Epic Test Win in Australia After 27 Years In the previous World Cup, Bangladesh secured victory in only two out of the nine matches they played. Shakib, who captained the team during the tournament, labeled it as the worst World Cup ever for the Bangladesh team.

President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nazmul Hasan Papon, and former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal held a meeting on Monday. “Two or three days ago, Tamim expressed his desire to meet. During our last conversation, he mentioned, 'I want to tell you many things,'” stated Nazmul, offering no specific details. He continued to be elusive with his statement. Tamim to decide career path after BPL “I did not want to come to the board this time. People ask me if there is any pressure on me. I said no. Two reasons why I don’t want to come to the board: firstly, I don’t have much time, and secondly, I have to make decisions that people won’t like,” he said, yet again without clarity on the nature of these decisions. Speculation mounted over Tamim’s possible retirement after the World Cup - for the second time in six months. When he did retire earlier, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's intervention led to a reversal of his decision. Preview of 2023 BAN vs NZ 1st Test Match in Sylhet When asked about his conversation with Tamim, Nazmul offered another vague statement. “Tamim said something at a time when I don’t have much time,” he said. “We are heading to the election in one month. I need to know where the problem lies. I want to delve deeper. I need to talk to everyone and make my decision. I have talked to him. Whatever decision we take, we will need to make it after the BPL.” Tamim missed the World Cup in India under a cloud over his fitness and the management's assessment of his value to the side short of  full fitness entering the tournament. Mashrafe, Shakib, get Awami League nominations for 12th National Parliament Election Post-World Cup, Tamim had discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and on Monday, he met with the BCB president. However, he did not clearly state the reasons for these meetings.

Masrafe Bin Mortaza, former Bangladesh captain and a current MP, contended that Tamim Iqbal's absence from the World Cup squad was a matter of choice rather than Bangladesh Cricket Board's decision. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled the World Cup squad on Tuesday, sans Tamim Iqbal. Tamim's World Cup exclusion due to injury: Chief Selector Chief selector Minhajul Abedin attributed Tamim's omission to concerns about his injuries, but Masrafe put forth a different perspective. "While many assert that Tamim was left out, the truth is that Tamim chose not to be part of the team," Mashrafe stated. "There is a significant distinction between exclusion and a voluntary decision not to join." Bangladesh suffers ODI series defeat to New Zealand Masrafe shared his take on his social media account after the team was announced. He was spotted at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, the same day the squad was unveiled. It remains uncertain whether he played a part in any deliberations regarding the team selection. Tamim's exclusion from the World Cup squad reverberated as a surprising development within Bangladesh's cricketing circles. The esteemed opener has grappled with a longstanding injury. Mahmudullah 4th Bangladeshi to score 5000 runs in ODIs He sat out the Asia Cup due to the same reason, dedicating over a month to rehabilitation. He had to leave captaincy for the same as well. Tamim Iqbal made a return during the New Zealand series, batting in just one match before his injury resurfaced, leading to his absence from the final match.

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has taken a significant step forward in his journey towards a comeback to competitive cricket, as he resumed batting practice on Sunday at the indoor practice facility in Mirpur. Also read : Tamim's Performance Crucial for Bangladesh in World Cup, Believes Habibul After undergoing a comprehensive two-week fitness training following a specialized treatment for his persistent back injury in London, Tamim's determination and focus on recovery are apparent. This marks a crucial milestone in his rehabilitation program, aimed at putting him in contention for the upcoming World Cup scheduled to be held in India later this year. Also Read : Tamim Iqbal starts rehabilitation with eye on upcoming World Cup The left-handed batsman's path to recovery has been beset by challenges. The prolonged battle with his back injury forced him to miss out on the Asia Cup and cast doubt over his participation in the the home series against New Zealand. Despite a brief retirement from international cricket last month, he was prompted to reconsider his decision following intervention by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading to his recommitment to the team. Also read : BCB Enlists a Psychologist to Enhance Mental Fitness of Cricketers The injury also prompted Tamim to step down from his role as Bangladesh's ODI captain, a position he held with pride. Nazmul Hasan,  President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), had expressed optimism about Tamim's eventual return to leadership. Reflecting on his decision to relinquish the captaincy, Tamim emphasized his selflessness, saying, "I could have participated in the Asia Cup if I chose to. However, that would have been self-centered at the expense of the team. Considering the team's future, I have opted to step down from the captaincy."

In the exciting world of cricket, where amazing players become heroes and their incredible achievements become sports history, there are only a few special individuals who go beyond just playing the game and manage to touch the hearts of millions. Tamim Iqbal, a talented batsman from Bangladesh, is one such extraordinary person. He has created unforgettable moments on the cricket field and has become a source of inspiration for an entire nation. In his 16-year career, Tamim has more than 15,000 runs, along with some incredible records for Bangladesh. Yesterday (July 6, 2023) Tamim Iqbal announced the end of his career for the Bangladesh cricket team. Opinions among fans are divided regarding Tamim's retirement announcement. Some fans consider it a "timely decision", while others believe it is an "irreparable" loss for Bangladeshi cricket, especially with the World Cup approaching. Records say, the Bangladesh cricket team will certainly miss Tamim Iqbal. Tamim’s achievements as a cricketer are noteworthy. He is the highest scorer for Bangladesh across all three formats. He said goodbye to international cricket after scoring more than 15,000 runs in three formats. Tamim has the highest, 25, centuries in all three formats for Bangladesh. Tamim’s 14 centuries in ODIs are the highest century record in ODIs by any Bangladeshi player. Read more: Litton Das replaces Tamim as Bangladesh's ODI captain In 2011, Tamim became one of the four cricketers of the year by the Wisden Almanack, which is known as the "Bible of Cricket". In the same year, the left-hander was selected as the second Bangladeshi to be named Wisden’s Test Cricketer of the Year. Tamim scored 295 runs in the 2016 T20 World Cup and became the highest run scorer of the tournament. Tamim Iqbal delivered incredible performances both on Bangladeshi soil and outside the country. His average is 37 at home and 35 away, with seven centuries at both places.

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.  

Bangladesh's ODI captain, Tamim Iqbal, has stated that although he is not 100 percent fit, he intends to participate in the first match of the three-match series against Afghanistan, commencing on Wednesday (July 05, 2023) in Chattogram. The Bangladesh team had a practice session on Tuesday (July 04, 2023) morning, during which Tamim attended but refrained from batting or fielding. ICC World Cup 2023: Schedule, Fixtures, Venues, Team List "I'm not a 100 percent fit, but I've decided to play tomorrow," Tamim shared during the pre-series press conference on Tuesday in Chattogram. "I'm feeling better now," he added. Tamim, however, mentioned that he will make the final decision regarding his participation in the next match after consulting with the medical team regarding his fitness. "The team's well-being takes precedence," he affirmed. "I won't make any decision that could trouble the team. But I believe I'm fit to play tomorrow's match." Every match is a tough match in the World Cup: Tamim Iqbal While the first match of the series is scheduled for tomorrow, the remaining matches will be held on July 8 and 11 at the same venue. All matches are day-night affairs and will start at 2 pm each day. Afghanistan recently played a one-off Test in June, and they have returned now to compete in a three-match ODI and two-match T20I series in Chattogram and Sylhet, respectively.

Tamim Iqbal, the ODI captain of Bangladesh, has expressed that the upcoming World Cup in India will pose a tough challenge for his team, as there are no easy games in such an event. Bangladesh will commence their World Cup campaign on October 7th in Dharamsala with a match against their Asian rivals, Afghanistan. During the league phase of the World Cup, Bangladesh is scheduled to play a total of nine matches, with their final match against Australia in Pune. The matches featuring Bangladesh in the World Cup will be held in six different venues. Among them, three venues—Dharamsala, Kolkata, and Pune—will host two matches each for Bangladesh. Tamim, who is likely to lead Bangladesh in the World Cup for the first time, believes that the 50-over World Cup is the ultimate white-ball event. ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Revealed: Bangladesh to face Afghanistan in First MatchWhile speaking to the ICC, he stated, "This is the ultimate event. Nothing compares to a one-day World Cup because it is the most challenging white-ball format that consistently tests your game awareness and temperament." Tamim emphasizes that the World Cup has a tough format, making every game a difficult one. Consequently, he asserts that there are no easy matches in the World Cup. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful of performing well, as the conditions in India are more familiar to the team than those in Bangladesh. Bangladesh vs Afghanistan Head-to Head ODI Records So Far: Who is the Favourite? "I am very confident with the side we will take to the World Cup. We have been performing at a very high level in ODIs and were one of the leading sides in the World Cup qualifiers," added Tamim. Bangladesh possesses a balanced team comprising both young and experienced players in ODIs. Over the past three years, Bangladesh has played a total of 36 ODIs, winning 23 matches both at home and abroad. In comparison, England, the reigning World Champions, played 33 matches during the same period, winning 17, while New Zealand, the runners-up, played 32 matches and emerged victorious in 18. BAN vs AFG Series 2023: Bangladesh T20 Squad Analysis     

Bangladesh are concerned about the availability of Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan Miraz ahead of the first ODI against Ireland on March 18 in Sylhet.  Mehidy suffered a blow to his eye during a practice session on Friday morning while playing football. However, a quick CT scan revealed that the all-rounder has no problem. Tigers captain Tamim is suffering from a fever and cold, and his participation in the first ODI is uncertain. Bangladesh coach Chandika Hathurusingha said Tamim may have a viral infection, and a final decision regarding his availability is yet to be made. Also Read: Zakir ruled out of Ireland ODI series due to injury The southpaw did not participate in the practice session on Friday and batted for a long time in the nets. Earlier, Zakir Hasan was ruled out of the squad due to a thumb injury. He sustained the blow during a practice session on Thursday at Sylhet International Stadium. The second and final ODI will also be played at the same venue on March 20 and 23, respectively. After the ODI series, both teams will play a three-match T20I series in Chattogram, followed by a Test in Dhaka, which will mark Ireland's first Test in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has introduced an online system for selling tickets for the ODI series. Fans will need to register first on the BCB's online platform to buy tickets using their NID and a valid phone number. Tickets can also be bought in person from designated booths in Sylhet.