People should remember Tamim's outstanding bravery: Mashrafe

Bangladesh’s ODI cricket team captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza has said people should remember the outstanding bravery and performance of Tamim Iqbal, who surprised fans by returning to the crease in the Asia Cup opener despite an injury.

Tamim, who had been recovering from a finger injury, was taken off the field after being hit by a Sri Lankan bowler in the second over, reports bdnews24.com.

Later he was taken to the hospital, where it was found that he had exacerbated the damage to his finger. Doctors recommended he take a six-month rest, which would not only cause him to skip the match, but the entire tournament.

Tamim was seen in the dressing room with his hanging hands in a sling. Bangladesh seemed losing wickets one after another in the last portion of match, leaving Mushfiq alone on the crease.

The Tigers were worried that the total was insufficient. But Tamim took on the challenge and returned to the crease to help Mushfiqur Rahman. Everyone at the stadium and the viewers on TV were shocked. Even the commentators could not believe it.

Tamim, who it seemed had retired hurt, returned to the crease to continue the innings. Mushfiq made the remainder of the runs, scoring 32 in 2.3 overs, raising the Bangladesh total.

It paved the way for the Tigers’ victory as the bowling attack bundled out Sri Lanka to win by 137 runs.

At the end of the match, commentator Ramiz Raja applauded the courage and devotion of opener Tamim Iqbal. Skipper Mashrafe Bin Mortaza also expressed his admiration, love and respect for Tamim.

“I can say only one thing - people should remember him,’ the captain said.

He also applauded the partnership of Mushfiq and Mohammad Mithun.

The Sri Lankan bowlers took early wickets but the pressure could not stop a steady Mushfiqur from earning a century after a partnership with Mithun.

Mithun scored 63 runs and Mushfiq played a career-best innings, scoring 144 off 150 before being dismissed in the final over. The brilliant partnership between the two Tigers received special acclaim from ODI captain Mashrafe.

“We must be grateful to Mushfiq and Mithun. Their batting was really good even they were under pressure. Tamim could not bat, but the way Mushfiq and Mithun batted, was excellent.”