Sports Desk:

The National Cricket League (NCL) T20 is set to kick off Wednesday in Sylhet, and the spotlight is firmly on Tamim Iqbal’s return to competitive cricket after a seven-month hiatus.

Tamim, one of Bangladesh’s cricketing icons, last played competitive cricket for Prime Bank Cricket Club in the Dhaka Premier League in April-May, where he accumulated 539 runs from 16 matches at an average of 33.68.

Earlier in the year, he led Fortune Barishal to their maiden Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) title.

Tamim has been irregular in competitive cricket since shocking the cricket fraternity in July 2023 when he announced his sudden retirement from international cricket. The decision sparked widespread discussions and debates about his future in the sport.

He did return to the national side before the ODI World Cup in September last year but hasn’t played for Bangladesh ever since. Fans and analysts have been divided over whether the 35-year-old left-hander would ever return to international cricket.

In the months following his retirement, Tamim explored a new role as a commentator. He made appearances in the commentary box during the Bangladesh vs India series in India in September this year and a few matches on home soil.

While his insights and expertise were appreciated, many fans longed to see him back on the field.

Tamim’s announcement of his return to competitive cricket through the NCL T20 was met with excitement and optimism.

Over the past month, he has been training intensively at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, focusing on regaining his fitness and form. His dedication was evident as he underwent rigorous sessions to prepare for the tournament.

On Tuesday, Tamim reached Sylhet and began practicing with his team, Chattogram Division, in the afternoon. His much-anticipated return begins with a match against Rangpur at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today at 1:30 PM BST.

“It’s definitely a boost for the team to have a senior cricketer like Tamim Iqbal. He will want to give his best. He is an inspiration for so many young cricketers here,” said Chattogram skipper Yasir Ali Chowdhury on Tuesday.

“He is returning to competitive cricket after seven months. I think it will take him some time in the first few matches to get back in rhythm. He is a human, after all. But seeing his practice today, I felt he’s in a good rhythm. Hopefully, we will see something good from him,” Yasir added.

The NCL T20 offers Tamim an opportunity to rediscover his form and rhythm while reigniting his passion for the game.

Tamim isn’t the only major returnee in the tournament.

Najmul Hossain, Bangladesh’s all-format skipper, is also back after recovering from a groin injury that ruled him out of the ongoing West Indies tour. Like Tamim, Najmul has been training intensively at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. He joined his team in Sylhet on Tuesday.

Veteran cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim will also play in the tournament, representing Rajshahi.

Rajshahi’s wicketkeeper Pritom Kumer, speaking at the team’s jersey unveiling, highlighted the positive influence of having seasoned campaigners like Mushfiq and Najmul on the team.

“No pressure (having Najmul and Mushfiq in the team). They are experienced cricketers and share a lot of things with the young players, which helps us on the field,” Pritom said.