Bangladesh's young opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim was delighted to be called into the Asia Cup squad, he acknowledged that he was inspired by veteran Tamim Iqbal since childhood as they share the same name.
The U-19 World Cup winner Tanzid found his way into the national setup after a promising performance in the Emerging Asia Cup tournament. Tanzid will be joined by old teammates Shamim Hossain Patwary, Shoriful Islam, and Towhid Hridoy in the Senior Men’s team.
The 22-year-old was called into the 17-member squad in place of former captain Tamim who was ruled out due to a back injury.
“I've been hearing this for a long time. To be honest, I grew up watching him (Tamim Bhai) play. I got inspired to watch the game as my name was similar to him. This is why I have watched the game more since childhood. Tamim Iqbal is an idol for us, for everyone. I try to learn a lot by watching his game. How to control everything in any situation. Definitely an inspiration,” said Tanzid Tamim.
“Of course, it’s important. Not only my spot but everyone's spot is important for everyone. And I think Tamim Bhai is a role model for everyone. I grew up watching him. So I will try to give my best and retain my place in the squad,” he said.
The left-handed opener reminisced about the struggles he faced throughout his journey to the national team.
“Feeling really good. My journey was not so easy. Because our background is not from BKSP. I have played many districts, divisions, and Dhaka leagues to reach this place. So Alhamdulillah there are many more talented players in Bogra, In Sha Allah they will also come up,” he added.
As the last member of the 2020 U-19 World Cup winning team, Tamim got a chance in the national team. These youngsters, who have given the country the highest achievement in age-level cricket, now want to win the senior World Cup.
“What we have achieved is now in the past. Everyone has one thing now, one dream is to win the World Cup for the seniors. When everyone meets, since the World Cup is ahead, only one thing works in the mind, no matter how many tournaments we play, Asia Cup, the World Cup remains in the back of the mind.
In Sha Allah we will try this time” Tamim added.