Tamim Iqbal steps down as Bangladesh ODI captain
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. 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."
The Bangladesh opener is hopeful of making it in time for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup later this year.
"I want to play the New Zealand series in the best possible shape. We could have rushed it for the Asia Cup but we are opting against it. I am very hopeful that I will be available for the World Cup."