Tamim Iqbal quits county after just one game

Bangladeshi opener Tamim Iqbal has terminated his contract with English county side Essex with immediate effect due to personal reasons. It was later learnt that the prolific run scorer’s wife was reportedly the subject of an attempted acid-attack earlier on Tuesday night.

Following his superb performances at the ICC Champions Trophy, Tamim had signed with Essex for eight matches at the ongoing Natwest T20 blast. He featured for the Eagles on Sunday against the Kent Spitfires and scored seven runs. The Eagles would eventually succumb to a seven-wicket defeat.

According to a report in the Bangladesh Daily Star, Tamim was out for dinner with his wife Ayesha Siddiqa, who wears a hijab as per the customs of her religion, and their one-year-old son. Apparently, Tamim and his family were chased out of the restaurant and allegedly had acid thrown at them. Thankfully, all three escaped unhurt.

Essex asks for Tamim’s privacy to be respected

Essex has shied away from giving any reason as to why the Bangladeshi international had left the side and requested for Tamim’s privacy to be respected.

The official statement on their website read: “Essex County Cricket Club can confirm that overseas player, Tamim Iqbal, has left the Club with immediate effect due to personal reasons. We wish him all the best and it would be appreciated if Tamim’s privacy is respected during this time.”

Although the 28-year-old’s stint with the Eagles ended on a disappointing note, it was widely expected that he would make a significant contribution. His form at the Champions Trophy, where he had scored a century against hosts England, had indicated likewise. The left-hander averaged 73.25 at the tournament and helped his side to the semi-finals.

He was excited to have joined Essex and had said, “I am really looking forward to linking up with my Essex teammates for the upcoming NatWest T20 Blast.”

Unfortunately, it had to end abruptly for Tamim.