I Am Not Thinking About T20Is For The Next Six Months - Tamim Iqbal

Bangladesh’s premier batter Tamim Iqbal has revealed that he intends to take a break from T20Is with an eye on improving himself and delivering for his country in Tests and ODIs.

Tamim explained that his services aren’t needed in the shortest format anymore with the emergence of young talent. He has already shown he is a team player after opting out of the T20 World Cup in UAE as he wasn’t well prepared and didn’t want to take up a youngster’s spot.

“The [BCB officials] obviously want me to continue playing until the [T20] World Cup. But my issue was different. I’ve taken a decision which will fare well for all. I’m not thinking about T20 Internationals for the next six months. I’ll put all my focus on Tests and ODIs in these months.”

“I hope the youngsters will play so well in the coming six months that I will no longer be needed. Yet, if the times call after six months and the board, selectors or team management feel that they need me and I stay prepared for that, we’ll discuss the matter once again. But I’m not thinking of that in these six months,” Tamim stated on Thursday.

“I believe and hope that those who are opening in T20s now are very capable” – Tamim Iqbal

With Bangladesh resuming their squad building process with an eye on the T20 World Cup 2022 that will be held in Australia, Tamim’s decision will help the board to continue testing their young openers like Mohammad Naim.

“We gave the youngsters opportunity in the last series as well. They need it. It’ll be a mistake to judge them by just a couple of series. I’m personally confident that I’ll no longer be needed six months later. Nevertheless, I’m saying that if the board suggests or if it occurs to me, I’ll return.“

“But for now, I’m against it. I believe and hope that those who are opening in the T20s now are very capable. They’ll do well. I’m sure about that. I can’t wish for anything but the best for my team and the fellows,” Tamim added.

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