Tamim Iqbal, the former Bangladesh opener, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. Known for his consistent performances across formats, Iqbal has been a stalwart for Bangladesh since his debut in 2007. With over 15 years of international cricket experience, he has been pivotal in shaping Bangladesh’s cricketing landscape. Iqbal’s retirement marks the end of an era, as he leaves behind a legacy of significant contributions to his nation’s cricketing success, including numerous records and match-winning innings. His retirement decision came as a surprise, marking the conclusion of a highly respected career.
Tamim Iqbal has represented Bangladesh in 391 international cricket matches across all formats.
Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal announced his retirement from international cricket for the second time on Friday, January 10, bringing an end to his 15-year career. Over the course of his career, Tamim represented Bangladesh in 391 games across formats.
This marks the second time Tamim has called it quits, as he had previously announced his retirement in July 2023, only to reverse the decision within 24 hours.
Tamim made a significant impact during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 with his aggressive strokeplay, later becoming a key player for Bangladesh. He played 70 Tests, 243 ODIs, and 78 T20Is, with his last international appearance coming in an ODI against New Zealand in Mirpur in September 2023.
Tamim informed the Bangladesh selectors of his decision in Sylhet on Wednesday. The selection panel, headed by Gazi Ashraf Hossain, urged him to return for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Initially firm in his retirement, Tamim reconsidered after requests from teammates, including captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, and decided to take an extra day to think it over.
Tamim Iqbal Calls Time on His International Cricket Career
Tamim Iqbal has officially announced his retirement from international cricket via a heartfelt message on Facebook, confirming that his time in the sport has come to an end. He expressed that he did not wish to divert attention away from the Bangladesh team ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy, adding that his decision had been on his mind for some time.
In his post, Tamim shared, “I have been away from international cricket for a long time. That distance will remain. My chapter in international cricket is over. I have been thinking about this for a long time.” He emphasized his desire to avoid becoming a distraction, especially with a major tournament on the horizon.
The 35-year-old acknowledged that both captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and the selection committee had encouraged him to return, but he decided to follow his heart in making this difficult choice. He expressed gratitude for their continued support, saying, “Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto sincerely asked me to return to the team. There were discussions with the selection committee too. I am grateful to them for still considering me in the team. However, I have listened to my own heart.”
Tamim retires as one of the most iconic figures in Bangladesh cricket history, with over 14,000 international runs and 25 centuries, the most by any Bangladeshi player. His legacy will remain an integral part of the nation’s cricketing history.