Tamim Iqbal to play for Essex in NatWest T20 Blast

Bangladesh batting sensation Tamim Iqbal is all set to turn out for Essex Eagles in his maiden NatWest T20 Blast appearance. The star opener has got an NOC from the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the high-profile T20 tournament which will begin on Friday. Due to Bangladesh’s home series against Australia in late August, Tamim won’t be available for the entire length of the tournament.

Tamim’s big hand in the Tiger’s resurgence

The 28-year old is responsible for Bangladesh’s rise in international cricket as he has churned out important runs for his side. The left-hander is at the peak of his prowess and loves playing in England. He was in top form during the ICC Champions Trophy last month registering scores of 128, 95, 0 and 70 in four games. He has a special liking for England, where he has scored a lot of runs in Test cricket as well.

Stint to be short

Tamim has confirmed the development but has given his availability for 8 or 9 games before he will travel to Bangladesh to prepare for the 2-Test series. This won’t be the first time that the swashbuckling opener will feature in English domestic cricket. In 2011, Tamim played five games for Nottinghamshire. This time around, though, the left-hander will play a few more games than his last stint in England.

Dutch-born Ryan ten Doeschate will be Tamim’s skipper at Essex Eagles. The left-hander might open the innings alongside former England captain Alistair Cook, who also plays for Essex.

Last season, Essex did not enjoy the best of seasons as they lost 6 out of their 14 games. They eventually did make it to the quarter finals, where they fell short to Nottinghamshire by 39 runs. This time, however, with the inclusion of Tamim, Essex have a sound team which boasts of former England international Ravi Bopara and experienced all-rounder Ashar Zaidi alongside the skipper, who is a skilled all-rounder.