In a statement posted on Facebook, Tamim wrote: "I have been away from international cricket for a long time. That distance will never punch again. End of my chapter in international cricket. Been thinking about this for a long time. Now that there is a big series like the Champions Trophy, I don't want me to be discussed again and the team's attention disrupted."

This is the second time Tamim has retired from international cricket, having previously called time on his career in 2023 in an emotional press conference. The 35-year-old then reversed his decision within 24 hours after intervention from Bangladesh's now deposed prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

Tamim reportedly informed the Bangladesh selectors of his decision in Sylhet on Wednesday (January 8) after they allegedly asked him to return to the side for the Champions Trophy. With 8,357 ODI runs to his name, Tamim is Bangladesh's leading run-scorer in the format, and is well clear of Mushfiqur Rahim in second place.

The deadline to name Champions Trophy squads is January 12, with the BCB seemingly waiting until last minute to confirm Tamim's availability. Having not played an international game since 2023, Tamim has kept in international contention with his domestic form. He was named Player of the Tournament in the 2024 BPL, but he opted out of accepting a central contract from the BCB last year.

"I removed myself from the BCB central contract long ago because I did not want it [to return to international cricket]," he wrote. "Although many have said, it's been in the media many times, that I have left the matter hanging. But there is nothing to plan or discuss about the BCB who is not in any agreement, who has stood away more than a year ago. Even after that, there was unnecessary discussion. The decision to retire or continue playing is the own right of a cricketer or any professional athlete. I gave myself time. Now I feel like the time has come.

"Captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto sincerely asked me to return. Discussion with the election committee also. Gratitude to them for still making me feel worthy. But I heard my mind. What happened before the 2023 World Cup, was a big shock for me, as I did not go out of the team due to cricket."

Tamim's retirement comes the day after he was involved in a heated on-field exchange with Alex Hales in the BPL. He and Hales had to separated from each other after the final over of the match, with both accusing the other of verbal abuse.

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