Uthappa Highlights Team's Deficiencies, Calls for Tamim Iqbal's Inclusion

Robin Uthappa has voiced concerns about the current cricket team's composition, indicating that it lacks strength across all departments. Uthappa has emphasized the need for a player like Tamim Iqbal, who has been performing exceptionally well over the past year, to bolster the team's world capabilities.

Despite his recent form, Tamim Iqbal was left out of Bangladesh's ICC Men's Cricket World Cup squad. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced the 15-man squad, and Tamim's exclusion was a notable surprise. Tamim, who made a confident return to international cricket with a fluent 44 against New Zealand, reportedly informed the management that he was not fit enough to play all nine group games in the tournament.

Tamim's absence has sparked discussions about the team's overall strength. Uthappa's comments highlight the importance of having a reliable and experienced opener like Tamim. His track record, including his standout performance in the 2016 T20 World Cup where he scored 295 runs in six matches, highlights his capability to deliver under pressure.

The decision to exclude Tamim has not only affected the team's dynamics but also led to internal conflicts. Reports suggest that Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan was unhappy with Tamim's decision and even considered stepping down as captain. However, the selectors finally decided against picking Tamim, leading to further controversies within the team.

In addition to Tamim's exclusion, other changes in the squad have raised eyebrows. Experienced batter Mahmudullah has been included after a long absence, following his impressive performance in the New Zealand series. New faces like Tanzid Hasan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib have been picked, while Soumya Sarkar was dropped after a poor showing.

The full squad for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup includes Shakib Al Hasan (captain), Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tanzid Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

Tamim Iqbal's career has been marked by consistent performances and significant contributions to Bangladesh cricket. From scoring 112 off 71 balls against England in an Under-19 game to making his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in 2007, Tamim has been a key player for Bangladesh. His aggressive batting style and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the most important batsmen in the team.

The team's preparations for the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup are overshadowed by the absence of Tamim Iqbal, which remains a point of contention. Robin Uthappa's call for a player like Tamim to strengthen the team highlights the ongoing debate about the team's composition and readiness for the tournament.

Key Takeaways

• Robin Uthappa says Bangladesh cricket team lacks strength across all departments.
• Tamim Iqbal was left out of Bangladesh's ICC Men's Cricket World Cup squad.
• Tamim's exclusion sparked internal conflicts, including captain Shakib Al Hasan's unhappiness.
• The squad includes experienced players like Mahmudullah and new faces like Tanzid Hasan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
• Tamim's absence overshadows Bangladesh's preparations for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.