BCB President Faruque Ahmed cries out for Tamim Iqbal’s stunning return to Bangladesh Cricket

Faruque Ahmed, the newly appointed President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), has set the stage for Tamim Iqbal for a potential comeback to the international arena. His statement during his first press conference at Dhaka's Shere Bangla National Stadium has ignited hopes of seeing the former Bangladesh captain back in action for another two to three years.

Ahmed has expressed his strong desire to see Tamim return to international cricket. Notably, the opener had announced a brief retirement last year before making a dramatic U-turn following the intervention by the former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

BCB President Faruque Ahmed hints at Tamim Iqbal’s International comeback

Even the former Bangladesh captain has opted against signing a central contract with the BCB. He has not played any international game since September 2023. However, Tamim made some appearances in domestic leagues like the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and Dhaka Premier League (DPL).

Despite uncertainty over the veteran opener’s international future, the BCB President hinted at a possible ODI comeback for Tamim, suggesting that the 34-year-old might find his best form in the 50-over format. and wants to see him playing for at least three more years. Ahmed believes that Tamim could still play a significant role in the team’s future.

However, the BCB President is not sure whether the star batter would like to sport whites for the country anymore. Ahmed stressed that the BCB will support whatever decision Tamim makes regarding his international career. If Tamim decides against a return to the field, Ahmed made it clear that there would still be a vital place for him within the BCB.

The BCB President said that he would talk to Tamim about his future plans before offering him the job at the board. Actually, Ahmed believes that Tamim could contribute significantly in an administrative role and add value to the BCB in a different capacity, as he has a wealth of experience both as a player and captain.

Tamim can serve us well on the board: BCB President

Faruque Ahmed was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo: “The relevant board department will see what he has to do to play for Bangladesh. I would like to see Tamim Iqbal play for two or three years more. Maybe ODI is his best format now. I think Tamim can tell you better whether he can play the longer format.”

The BCB President added, “I want to speak to Tamim about his future plans. He is a former captain, so he definitely has leadership qualities. If he doesn't want to play, I will be happy to see him get involved with the board. He can serve us well on the board.”

Notably, Iqbal had announced his retirement from ODIs and Tests in 2023 after stepping away from T20Is in 2022. In ODI cricket, he is Bangladesh's most successful batter, amassing 8357 runs in 243 matches at an average of 36.62. His ODI career includes 14 centuries and 56 half-centuries.

Additionally, Tamim has amassed 5134 runs in 70 Test matches with the help of 10 centuries and 31 fifties for Bangladesh. He has also 1758 runs to his name in 78 T20Is, hitting seven fifties and one tone.