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Tamim Iqbal’s retirement decision took a U-turn just a day after his emotional announcement in Chattogram, thanks to the intervention of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The meeting between Tamim, accompanied by his wife, Mashrafe Mortaza, the former captain, and BCB president Nazmul Hassan, took place at Hasina’s residence in Dhaka on Friday afternoon.
While the turnaround happened on Friday afternoon, ESPNcricinfo received information about the meeting as early as Thursday evening. It is understood that Mashrafe, who is a member of parliament, initiated the process by discussing the situation with the prime minister. Until then, Tamim had been reluctant to discuss his retirement plans with Hassan.
Tamim Iqbal announced retirement a day back!
On Thursday afternoon, Tamim announced his retirement in a televised broadcast, during which he broke down multiple times while expressing his decision. The announcement created a significant buzz across airwaves and social media throughout the day.
A different Tamim addressed the media on Friday evening outside the Prime Minister’s residence, sharing that he had been granted a six-week break to recover from his injuries.
“The honorable Prime Minister invited me to her residence this afternoon,” Tamim explained. “We had an extensive discussion, following which she instructed me to return to cricket. I am withdrawing my retirement.
“I can refuse anyone, but it’s impossible to say no to the most important person in the country. Mashrafe bhai called me while Papon bhai [Hassan] was present. They played a crucial role [in the reversal]. Additionally, the Prime Minister has granted me a break of one and a half months. I will complete my treatment and make a comeback to cricket.”
BCB president Hassan expressed relief, stating that he knew a solution was within reach and was glad to have the opportunity to sit down with Tamim and convince him to reverse his decision. “After watching his press conference [on Thursday], I sensed the emotional aspect of his decision,” Hassan shared. “I knew that by sitting face-to-face, we could find a resolution.
“We spoke with him through the Prime Minister, and as you heard, he has withdrawn his retirement letter. He is not retired. He will take a break of six weeks for rehabilitation and to prepare himself physically and mentally. He will return to cricket soon.”
When asked if he felt relieved, Hassan responded, “Of course, we are relieved. How can we play without our captain?”
Tamim, who announced his retirement after leading Bangladesh in the first ODI against Afghanistan, will not participate in the remaining matches of the series. Litton Das has been appointed as the captain for the matches scheduled on July 8 and 11.
Also, see:
Outcomes of first meeting under new PCB chairman
