Sports Desk:

Azizul Hakim Tamim, captain of Bangladesh’s U-19 cricket team, is now setting his focus on World Cup glory after leading his team to a historic back-to-back Asia Cup triumph.

The team received a hero’s welcome upon their return on Sunday midnight, as fans and officials gathered at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to celebrate the achievement.

Bangladesh claimed the title with a commanding 59-run win over India in the final at the Dubai International Stadium, securing their second consecutive Asia Cup trophy.

“The World Cup will be our biggest test. We are preparing for it and moving forward with the goal of achieving even greater things,” Tamim shared his ambitions for the future.

The captain dedicated the victory to the nation, adding, “This trophy is for the entire country. The support from expatriates in the stands made us feel like we weren’t just playing cricket—we were making our country proud.”

Tamim credited the team’s success to years of dedication and a strong sense of unity that developed as they grew together through various age levels.

“Alhamdulillah, we are champions. This victory is the result of collective effort and trust in ourselves. From the U-15, U-16, and U-17 levels, we’ve built this team together. Our success is a testament to everyone’s hard work, and Allah has rewarded our perseverance,” he said.

Tamim’s leadership and on-field performances have earned widespread acclaim, especially for inspiring his team in front of an electrifying crowd in Dubai.

Recalling the atmosphere during the final, he said, “Hearing the chants of ‘Allahu Akbar’ from the stands filled me with immense pride as a Muslim. Those who came to support us from early morning made the game even more special.”

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) organised a reception at the airport, complete with flowers, cheers, and a specially decorated cake to commemorate the win. Fans surrounded Tamim, eager to snap selfies with him and the gleaming trophy.