On an extraordinary occasion for Bangladesh cricket, Mushfiqur Rahim, a seasoned player, entered the field at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur this morning to participate in his 100th Test match—a remarkable accomplishment no Bangladeshi cricketer has previously attained.
Amid the excitement filling the stadium, Mushfiqur’s close comrade, Shakib Al Hasan, chose to express a poignant and motivating message on Facebook. Sharing a photo of the two cricket icons together, Shakib reminisced, “I recall when you made your Test debut at Lord’s. I keenly observed every moment from the recreation room in BKSP. Since that day, you have been a source of inspiration for me and numerous cricketers in Bangladesh and beyond.”
Mushfiqur, who made his debut in 2005 at Lord’s, has been a stalwart figure in Bangladesh cricket for two decades. With 6,351 runs at an average of 38.02, which includes three double centuries, he holds the distinction of being the leading run-scorer in Test cricket for the country. His journey has ignited a passion for the sport in a generation of cricketers, with Shakib fondly recalling witnessing a young Mushfiqur’s authoritative presence as a captain even in junior-level cricket.
“You have been a consistent performer and have dedicated yourself to the game. Since your days leading junior teams, I have viewed you as my captain, and that sentiment will persist as I continue to play cricket. Mushfiq bhai, on this momentous occasion, I extend my best wishes for your 100th Test match, a truly historic achievement for any cricketer. Just as I witnessed your debut, I will be observing every delivery you face in your 100th Test match. I wish you a delightful experience in this match, and I yearn for the opportunity to stand by your side on the field, celebrating your success,” Shakib remarked.
In the initial match of the series against Ireland in Sylhet, Mushfiqur contributed 23 runs off 52 balls, aiding Bangladesh in securing an innings victory. However, all eyes are now fixed on him in this landmark match in Mirpur, with hopes of witnessing a memorable performance from the nation’s most seasoned Test cricketer.