Rubel Hossain Reflects On Early Exit From Bangladesh Duty

Bangladesh pace bowler Rubel Hossain has spoken candidly about his international retirement, admitting that he believes he could have continued representing the national side for “another three years” had circumstances been different.

Rubel, who last featured for Bangladesh in April 2021, formally announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday via social media. While stepping away from the international arena, he confirmed that he intends to continue playing domestic cricket for the time being.

A reflective farewell after long absence

Explaining the timing of his decision, Rubel pointed to declining fitness, lack of recent competitive action at top level, and an increasingly settled national squad.

“Age catches up with everyone and at some point you have to leave cricket,” he said. “I have not been in the national team for a long time. I did not play in the latest Dhaka League or the BPL, so I felt this was the right moment. My fitness is not what it used to be.”

He added that while stepping away brings sadness, he recognises the rise of younger players.

“There is a bit of sadness because I have been with the Bangladesh Cricket Board for many years, from age-group cricket onwards. But the younger players are doing well, and I understand I cannot continue anymore.”

Future plans still open

Rubel said he is yet to decide his long-term future, although coaching and business remain possible directions.

“Right now I want to continue playing domestic cricket for as long as I can. After that I may go into coaching, or possibly start a business. I have not made any final decision, but cricket will always remain central to my life.”

International career: pride and regret

Reflecting on his international career, Rubel admitted to mixed emotions, balancing pride with frustration over missed opportunities.

“There will always be some regrets,” he said. “I had good spells and difficult periods. Even when I was in form, I was not always selected regularly. If I had played more consistently, I could have taken more wickets.”

Rubel finished his international career without reaching the 200-wicket milestone, something he partly attributes to irregular selection.

“I think I could have played another three years for Bangladesh, maybe until 2024 or 2025.”

Career highlights

Rubel recalled several standout moments from his career, including historic wins and memorable individual performances.

Among these, he described Sachin Tendulkar’s wicket as the most special.

“He is a legend of cricket. That wicket will always remain the most important for me,” he said.

He also recalled the emotional intensity of dismissing Virat Kohli.

“When I got Kohli out, my celebration was very different. I have known him since Under-19 cricket, so those moments always felt special.”

Matches he will never forget

Rubel highlighted Bangladesh’s 2015 World Cup win over England as one of the proudest moments of his career, along with the 2009 New Zealand series whitewash and his 2013 match-winning performance.

“2015 was a very challenging World Cup for me personally, but I managed to contribute when it mattered. That is something I will always be proud of.”

Missed moments and regrets

He also reflected on painful memories, particularly the Nidahas Trophy, where Bangladesh fell narrowly short in high-pressure matches.

“That still hurts. I should have bowled more intelligently and stayed calmer. I rushed my plans.”

Message to new BCB leadership

Rubel expressed optimism about Bangladesh Cricket Board’s new leadership and extended his support to the incoming president.

“I wish Tamim (Iqbal) all the best. He has seen facilities in many countries and I believe he will use that experience well.”

Call to revive fast-bowling programme

Finally, Rubel urged the board to restart the former “Pacer Hunt” programme, which helped discover talents like himself.

“I came into cricket through the Pacer Hunt programme. It should be brought back. Players like Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain and Shoriful Islam have shown what is possible. More programmes like this will only benefit Bangladesh cricket.”