Tamim reflects on responsibility and self-realisation

Tanzid Hasan Tamim's inclusion in the Bangladesh team was seen as a move full of potential. He made his debut against Sri Lanka in August last year and has since been a regular in Bangladesh's ODI squad.

The young left-handed opener was part of the playing XI for all matches in the recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup in India. However, he failed to live up to expectations, with only one half-century to his name.

Since his international debut, Tamim has played 18 ODIs, scoring 307 runs at an average of 18.05, including two fifties. In 15 T20Is, he has amassed 328 runs at an average of 25.23, including three half-centuries.

These numbers are far from satisfactory, particularly given the promising starts he has had in several innings, only to falter before making a substantial impact.

Now, more than a year and a half into his international career, the 24-year-old acknowledges that his struggles stem largely from his own shortcomings. Speaking to the media at Mirpur on Monday before departing for the West Indies with a few teammates, Tamim emphasised the need to take greater responsibility in building his innings.

Evaluating his career so far and discussing his expectations for the West Indies tour, Tamim said, "I agree with what you're saying. Personally, I feel that I need to take more responsibility. In most innings, I've started well but failed to capitalise and convert those starts into big scores."

"Moving forward, my goal will be to approach innings with a sense of responsibility. If I start well, I aim to build on that foundation. I believe this is more of a mental challenge. With the right game plan and focus, I hope to perform better from here on."

Bangladesh's batting department has been underwhelming in Test cricket for some time, and the ongoing West Indies tour has been no exception. After losing the first Test, Bangladesh were bowled out for just 164 in the first innings of the second Test. Although the ODI format presents a different set of challenges, Tamim isn't dwelling on those yet.

The opener remarked, "A good start is crucial in any series. Since many players there have been involved in the Test matches, they'll be more familiar with the conditions. We have a practice session before the ODIs, which will give us a better understanding of the challenges ahead. We've played a World Cup there before, so our aim will be to perform well. I'll try to make a strong start."

Following the Test series, Bangladesh will play three ODIs and three T20Is against the West Indies. The first ODI is scheduled for 8 December in St Kitts, with the remaining two matches set for 10 and 12 December at the same venue.