Tamim Iqbal's Future in International Cricket Hangs in the Balance

Former captain Tamim Iqbal engaged in discussions about his future with the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nazmul Hasan Papon. Following their meeting, Papon addressed the media, while Tamim held a separate press conference hours later. "I will probably start playing again from the BPL. I never want to waste time. I communicated my decision to the board president about what I want to do. Since they told me to wait until BPL, I can wait." - Tamim Iqbal

SBS Desk

November 27, 2023

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Tamim Iqbal's Future in International Cricket Hangs in the Balance

Former captain Tamim Iqbal engaged in discussions about his future with the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nazmul Hasan Papon. Following their meeting, Papon addressed the media, while Tamim held a separate press conference hours later. Tamim, Bangladesh's premier opener, conveyed conditions to the board president regarding his return to international cricket. Although Papon has not reached a decision, he has requested time until the conclusion of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), a proposition to which Tamim has agreed.

In their closed-door meeting on Monday afternoon, Tamim outlined several conditions for his return to international cricket. President Papon revealed that a decision on Tamim's future would be deferred until after the BPL. Despite Tamim's expressed conditions, Papon, currently occupied with election duties, requested the cricketer's patience until January. Tamim acquiesced to the president's request.

During the meeting, Tamim expressed various concerns to President Papon, who, in turn, emphasized that decisions would not be influenced solely by words. Papon stated, "Tamim mentioned certain issues at a time when I have no available time, given the upcoming election. I will delve into the problems post-election, understanding the intricacies. I won't base my decision on hearsay. I will engage with everyone, players, and coaching staff alike. Together, we will make decisions that are in the best interest of cricket once the BPL commences."

Later in the day, Tamim addressed the media, sharing insights into his international career. He mentioned, "I made a decision about my international career. I was expecting an official meeting with the cricket board. Today, in my meeting with the president, we had an open discussion about my problems, what happened or did not happen."

Although Tamim did not disclose specific details discussed with the board president, it is known that he has laid out conditions for his return to international cricket. Papon, busy with upcoming national elections, has asked for time until the BPL concludes before making a decision. Tamim acknowledged, "I will probably start playing again from the BPL. I never want to waste time. I communicated my decision to the board president about what I want to do. Since they told me to wait until BPL, I can wait."