Tamim expected to start net session from Aug 19

Former ODI captain Tamim Iqbal went to the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium yesterday while national team players were undergoing the last day of their fitness drills, ahead of skill training camp which begins on August 8.

It was Tamim's first visit to the 'home of cricket' in Mirpur since having announced his decision to step down as ODI captain.

The 34-year-old spent time in the medical department and, according to sources, the southpaw discussed his rehabilitation process with doctors. He later visited the cricket operations department before leaving Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) premises.

Tamim's initial two-week rest is set to continue till August 11, following which he will go through rehabilitation.

According to the chairman of the cricket operations committee, Jalal Yunus, the left-handed opener is expected to start net sessions from August 19.

"We had a meeting today (yesterday) and Tamim is expected to undergo further rehabilitation with [fitness coach] Nick Lee for the first week from tomorrow (today). If things go well, Tamim may start working at the nets from August 19," Jalal told The Daily Star yesterday.

Tamim has long been suffering from a back injury which sidelined him from the upcoming Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. His current rehabilitation plan is to overcome injury issues and return for Bangladesh's home ODI series against New Zealand right before the World Cup in India.