<div><b><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has taken a significant step forward in his journey towards a comeback to competitive cricket, as he resumed batting practice on Sunday at the indoor practice facility in Mirpur.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>After undergoing a comprehensive two-week fitness training following a specialized treatment for his persistent back injury in London, Tamim's determination and focus on recovery are apparent.</div><div><br></div><div>This marks a crucial milestone in his rehabilitation program, aimed at putting him in contention for the upcoming World Cup scheduled to be held in India later this year.</div><div><br></div><div>The left-handed batsman's path to recovery has been beset by challenges. The prolonged battle with his back injury forced him to miss out on the Asia Cup and cast doubt over his participation in the the home series against New Zealand.</div><div><br></div><div>Despite a brief retirement from international cricket last month, he was prompted to reconsider his decision following intervention by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading to his recommitment to the team.</div><div><br></div><div>The injury also prompted Tamim to step down from his role as Bangladesh's ODI captain, a position he held with pride.</div><div><br></div><div>Nazmul Hasan,&nbsp; President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), had expressed optimism about Tamim's eventual return to leadership.</div><div><br></div><div>Reflecting on his decision to relinquish the captaincy, Tamim emphasized his selflessness, saying, "I could have participated in the Asia Cup if I chose to. However, that would have been self-centered at the expense of the team. Considering the team's future, I have opted to step down from the captaincy." - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>