Tamim Determined to Play despite Fitness Concerns in Afghanistan Series Opener

Bangladesh's ODI captain, Tamim Iqbal, has stated that although he is not 100 percent fit, he intends to participate in the first match of the three-match series against Afghanistan, commencing on Wednesday (July 05, 2023) in Chattogram.

The Bangladesh team had a practice session on Tuesday (July 04, 2023) morning, during which Tamim attended but refrained from batting or fielding, reports UNB.

"I'm not a 100 percent fit, but I've decided to play tomorrow," Tamim shared during the pre-series press conference on Tuesday in Chattogram. "I'm feeling better now," he added.

Tamim, however, mentioned that he will make the final decision regarding his participation in the next match after consulting with the medical team regarding his fitness.

"The team's well-being takes precedence," he affirmed. "I won't make any decision that could trouble the team. But I believe I'm fit to play tomorrow's match."

While the first match of the series is scheduled for tomorrow, the remaining matches will be held on July 8 and 11 at the same venue. All matches are day-night affairs and will start at 2 pm each day.

Afghanistan recently played a one-off Test in June, and they have returned now to compete in a three-match ODI and two-match T20I series in Chattogram and Sylhet, respectively.