Want Tamim to play for two-three more years: New BCB president Faruque Ahmed

Faruque Ahmed and Tamim Iqbal. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

The newly-elected Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Faruque Ahmed has expressed his desire that Tamim Iqbal should continue playing for another two to three years. Tamim has been absent from the national team since withdrawing from the ODI World Cup in India last year, citing his discontent with what he described as “dirty games“.

One of Bangladesh’s most celebrated cricketers, Tamim has been a key player in the national team for over a decade. However, his recent absence from the squad, primarily due to fitness issues and personal decisions, has raised questions about his future. The speculation was raised after Tamim was seen accompanying Asif Mahmud, an advisor to the Youth and Sports Ministry, sparking rumors about a potential non-playing role within the cricket board.

In his first official press conference as the president of the BCB, Ahmed addressed the question of Tamim’s potential return to the field. Faruque acknowledged the left-hander’s importance to Bangladesh cricket.

“I will have to talk to him [Tamim]. He is a very sensible boy. I feel that he is one of the best from Bangladesh. Personally, if you ask me, I would want him to play for two-three more years. But me wanting that doesn’t mean it will happen. We will have to see what his fitness is like,” Faruque told the media.

Also read: Faruque Ahmed replaces Nazmul Hassan as new BCB president

Whatever he does, it’s good if he can play: Faruque Ahmed

Faruque emphasised that any decision would be made after careful consideration of Tamim’s fitness and discussions with both the player and the medical team. Faruque also hinted at a potential future for Tamim within the cricket board if he decides to step away from playing

“We have to see the format that the relevant department is regarding these matters. Tests maybe difficult but it’s good if it’s ODIs. Whatever he does, it’s good if he can play and if he can’t play then if he comes to the board I will be very happy. He has leadership qualities and if guys like him come [to the board] we can do something good,” Faruque concluded.