“Yesterday (Wednesday ODI) against Afghanistan was my last international game. I’m retiring from international cricket, effective right now.

“It is not that I took this decision abruptly. There are different reasons, which I think isn’t necessary to reveal here. “I’ve always said that I play the game to fulfil my father’s dream. I don’t know how much I’ve made him proud throughout these 16 years of international career.

“I thank everyone I’ve played with -- whether it’s the Under-13s, 15’s, 17’s, 19’s, premier league, national league -- and especially my colleagues in the national team. And cricket board (BCB), obviously, having given the opportunity to represent the country for so long and to captain Bangladesh.

“Whoever has helped me to grow as a cricketer or as a human being, I thank all from the bottom of my heart.

“Actually, I don’t have much to say. One thing I’ll definitely say is that I tried giving my hundred per cent whenever I was on the field.

“There are a lot of other things I want to really say. As you can see, I’m unable to speak. But I hope you all will be able to respect the circumstances. Quitting international cricket is not easy.

“However, I will only request [the media] one thing: about the ones who will play cricket in future, write good or bad or whatever about them but stick to cricket.

“I’ll request that you end my topic right here. It’s the end, at least as far as international cricket is concerned. Please don’t poke around to find what could’ve happened.