Tamim Iqbal 'on the right track' for 2023 World Cup comeback after back injury

Bangladesh veteran cricketer Tamim Iqbal shed light on his rehabilitation program and expressed optimism of recovering just in time for the eagerly-anticipated 2023 ODI World Cup. Notably, the marquee ICC event is scheduled to be held in India during October-November.

For the unversed, Tamim underwent an invasive pain management procedure and was under observation following the MRI scans in the United Kingdom (UK). Reflecting on his rehab program, the veteran cricketer shared that he is ‘on the right track’ and is eyeing a return prior to the ODI World Cup.

"It's going good (as far as rehabilitation is concerned). I think the way my plan is set we are right on track I am quite happy with the outcome till now and I haven't complained about the back pain yet and there is no sign of major pain since taking the injection,” Tamim was quoted as saying on ‘Not Out Noman’.

“There is stiffness for one or two days till now I am very happy and whoever is involved with the program (rehabilitation) like the new rehab manager (Kieron Thoms), national team physio Bayzid and national team trainer Nick all of them are satisfied with the process. If we can move forward well in that case the series that I am targeting I hope (to make myself available)," he added.

Important to have 10 days of net sessions: Tamim Iqbal

While Tamim is eyeing a return during the three ODIs against the Kiwis, he also stated that it is important for him to have full-fledged net sessions before making a comeback to the international circuit. 

"It's important (the five matches before the World Cup - three ODIs against New Zealand and two practice games) but for me what is important is to have proper 10 days of net sessions this is what I feel. Because I have played for so long, I don't think match could be a big problem for me,” Tamim elaborated.

“Normally if I can do 10 net sessions properly before the first game, I should be ok. It is very good that we are getting five matches and let's say if I play three to four games before the main event (World Cup) that is positive" he said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh are gearing for the upcoming Asia Cup as they will kickstart their campaign against co-hosts Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, on Thursday, August 31.