Tamim Iqbal has finally returned to international cricket, withdrawing retirement. 

The left-handed opener made the decision after a discussion with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Ganabhaban on Friday (July 7). 

After the meeting, Tamim said, “The Prime Minister called me and we had an open conversation. I have reconsidered my decision to retire. Even if I refused everyone in this regard, I couldn't not say no to the country’s Prime Minister.”

He also said, “Papun bhai and Mashrafe bhai had a significant role in this regard. The PM granted me a leave for one and a half months so that I can be mentally free a little bit."

Earlier, Tamil Iqbal announced his retirement from international Cricket with immediate effect on Thursday.

Tamim made his ODI debut in February 2007 and ends his limited-overs career with the most ODI runs (8313) and hundreds (14) for Bangladesh. He is the third highest run-scorer in ODIs among active players, behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Tamim scored 5134 runs in Tests at an average of 38.89, with 10 centuries in 70 matches.

Tamim retired from T20Is last year. His last Test was against Ireland in April.

BDST: 1831 HRS, JULY 07, 2023
MSK