Injured Tamim Iqbal steps down as Bangladesh ODI captain

Dhaka: Tamim Iqbal has announced his decision to step down as the Bangladesh ODI team captain with immediate effect after a back injury ruled him out of Asia Cup 2023.

The 34-year-old, who had recently announced his retirement from ODIs before withdrawing the same, addressed the press alongside Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan on Thursday.

The decision was made after he was ruled out of the upcoming Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, an ICC report said.

With an eye towards the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, the left-handed opener will look to manage his workload while BCB hopes he will be ready in time for the home ODIs against New Zealand.

"I will step down as captain and concentrate as a player and try to give my best whenever the opportunity comes," Tamim told the press.

Last month, Tamim had announced a shock retirement from international cricket amid the home ODI series against Afghanistan. However, he reversed his decision a day after with intervention from Bangladesh Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina.

"The honourable Prime Minister invited me to her residence this afternoon,” Tamim said at the time. “We had a long discussion after which she instructed me to return to cricket. I am withdrawing my retirement."

“I can say no to anyone but it is impossible to say no to the most important person in the country," Tamim added. (UNI)