Will miss my team and the cricket field: Tamim

Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal explained why he has pulled himself out of the upcoming India tour through a Facebook status today.

Tamim, who took a break from the India tour on personal grounds, explained his reasons behind missing the tour.

Tamim's status is given here in its entirety.

"As you all know, I have pulled myself out of the India tour on personal grounds. Even I am very much disappointed to not be able to play this series.

For the first time ever, Bangladesh are going to play a full-fledged series against India at their own backyard. We will also play our first match of ICC Test Championship on this tour. I had prepared very well for this tour and for a new season. I went abroad and separately had a month long fitness training for this tour. I practiced batting after returning to Bangladesh. I prepared well both mentally and physically. But still I cannot go to the tour because sometimes cricket becomes less important compared to family.

My wife and I are expecting our second child. Due to my wife's physical condition, she has to be hospitalized for longer than we expected. I thought that I needed to stay by her side at this time. This is why I had to take a break. Most of the times we stay away from our family and cannot give our loved ones much time. Even if they cannot want me to be by their side all the time but my family can want me during such times.

I will miss my team and I will miss the cricket field. But I wanted to ensure that my wife does not miss me during this critical time. I seek everyone's prayers. In Shah Allah, you will be able to see me back in the field very soon."