Tamim Iqbal retires from international cricket ahead of ODI World Cup
The 34-year-old batter ends his career as the leading run-getter for Bangladesh in the 50-over format after making his debut in 2007.
Crickate
Tamim Iqbal, the captain of Bangladesh's One-Day International team, stunned the Asian squad by declaring his retirement after the rain-affected ODI series opener against Afghanistan. The veteran opener has announced his retirement from international competition just three months before Bangladesh's World Cup campaign in India. The senior batter terminated his 16-year international career during a press conference on Thursday, shedding emotions as he made the announcement.
After making his debut in 2007, the 34-year-old batsman concludes his career as the leading run scorer for Bangladesh in the 50-over format. Bangladesh's direct qualification for the World Cup in India was secured under his leadership a year after he retired from T20I play. In addition, he has scored 14 centuries in One-Day Internationals, the most by a Bangladeshi batsman in the format.
"This is my final day. I have given my utmost. I have made every effort. I am resigning immediately from international cricket. I would like to thank my teammates, coaches, BCB officials, my family, and everyone else who has been with me throughout my long voyage. They had confidence in me.
I want to thank the supporters as well. Your affection and confidence in me motivated me to do my best for Bangladesh. I would appreciate your prayers as I enter the next phase of my life. Please keep me in your prayers,' Tamim Iqbal pleaded in an emotive press conference.
Also See | IND vs WI T20: Yashasvi jaiswal, Tilak Varma earn maiden call ups.Complete squad
In all game formats, the southpaw has been one of the most consistent performers for the Asian team. The leading run scorer in One-Day Internationals for Bangladesh was also a prolific run scorer in the longest format of the game, concluding with 5134 runs, the second most by a Bangladeshi batsman.
