Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal clarified his stance as to why he sat out the India tour after the Tigers departed the country Wednesday for three T20Is and two Test matches against their neighbor.
It was known that Tamim would miss the India tour due to personal reason and the 30-year old took to his social media account Wednesday to explain the details of his absence.
Tamim said on facebook, “All of you know that I took a break from the India tour due to family reason. I am also extremely disappointed at not being able to take part in the series.
“Bangladesh will play a bilateral series in India for the first time. This will also be our first match in the ICC Test Championship. For this tour and the new season, I prepared myself extremely well. I underwent individual fitness training for a month outside the country. I did batting practice after returning to the country. Physically and mentally, I prepared well. Despite that, I couldn’t tour, because at times, cricket becomes insignificant compared to family and loved ones.
“Me and my wife are counting the days to the time our second child will be born. My wife had to stay in the hospital for a bit more time than we originally thought. I thought that I had to stay beside her during this time. That’s why I had to take leave. Normally we stay away from the family for a long time, we can’t give time that they deserve. Our families sacrifice a lot. Maybe we can’t give them time on the other occasions but at this point of time, I had to be beside her.
“I will miss my team, I will miss cricket. But I wanted to ensure that my wife would have me by her side during this crucial moment. We request everyone to pray for us. Inshallah, all of you will see me in the field very soon.
“Thanks for all your support during these tough times.”
