Star Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal has been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to take part in the Everest Premier League. The leading run-getter for Bangaladesh across formats, this will mark the return of Tamim Iqbal to competitive crIcket following an injury layoff for two months.
The injury forced Tamim had to miss three consecutive T20I series against Zimbabwe, Australia and New Zealand. It must also be noted that he was withdrawn his name from the T20 World Cup squad as he felt it will be unjust to take someone’s place for a mega-event despite not being present in the last couple of months.
Tamim started his preparation for the tournament at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on September 19. Earlier the left-handed batsman had planned to play the EPL as a part of the preparation for the T20 World Cup but later withdrew his name.
Tamim had initially planned to play in the EPL as part of his preparation for the T20 World Cup but later decided not to be part of the global event. Meanwhile, BCB Cricket Operation chairman told Cricbuzz about Tamim being granted the NOC. He spent around 50 minutes batting in the nets besides undergoing a few fielding drills.
Tamim Iqbal who had closely worked with BCB chief physician Debashish Chowdhury is expected to be back to full fitness before the tournament starts as per Chowdhury’s words to Cricbuzz. The Everest Premier League will be held in Nepal from 25th September to October 9.
"Tamim is not having any problem when he is batting but we have to see how he feels while running and fielding. But the way he is improving, we are hopeful that he will be able to make it in EPL," said Debashish.
Tamim Iqbal sustained the injury to his right knee during a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in April-May. He took part in the home ODI series against the same oppositions before starting the Bangabandhu Dhaka Premier Division T20 League as well. However, he had to quit midway through the tournament after the injury got aggravated.
Tamim will be plying his trade for the Bhairahawa Gladiators in the EPL and is expected to leave for Nepal on 24th September for the tournament.