Farewell to a Cricket Legend
Tamim Iqbal, the stalwart of Bangladesh cricket, has officially announced his final retirement from the international arena. This decision, made on January 10, 2025, marks the end of a sparkling career that spanned more than a decade and a half and left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
The left-handed opener's journey has been full of highs and a few memorable twists. Back in July 2023, Tamim briefly retired, only to return after interventions from top officials. Fast forward to 2025, and he has decided to step away for good, emphasizing he didn't want to be a hindrance as the team gears up for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Despite encouragement from Bangladesh's captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and the selection committee urging his return, Tamim stuck to his guns.
A Record-Breaking Career
During his illustrious career, Tamim notched up 15,192 runs across 387 international matches, covering 70 Tests, 243 ODIs, and 74 T20Is. These staggering numbers secure his place as Bangladesh's second-highest run-scorer, underscoring his importance to the team. Remarkably, he stands alone as the only Bangladeshi batter to hit centuries in all three formats—a testament to his versatility and skill.
His impressive record boasts 25 centuries, staying unrivaled in Bangladesh's cricket history. Even though he stepped back from T20 internationals in 2022 and flirted with retirement again in 2023, he never ceased to shine domestically, claiming victories like the Bangladesh Premier League and excelling in the Dhaka Premier League.
Tamim's recent performances, combined with his past dedication, have ensured a lasting legacy that Bangladeshi cricket fans will cherish. The absence of his name in the 2023 ODI World Cup squad came as a shock, attributed to non-cricketing reasons, further testing his personal resolve.
His announcement also highlighted a period of personal reflection, where he weighed the support of fans and family against his decision. While his son and countless fans wanted to see him play in the national colors once more, Tamim prioritized maintaining focus on personal well-being over a return.
As Tamim Iqbal bids farewell, his influence will remain a guiding force for cricket in Bangladesh. His records and the memories he leaves behind will be an inspiration for future generations, even as he continues to make waves on the domestic front. For now, the world of international cricket will miss one of its prolific run machines.