Mushfiqur Rahim joined an elite group of cricketers by becoming only the 11th batter in history to score a century in his 100th Test. On Thursday at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium, he notched his 13th Test century against Ireland, finishing the first day just one run short on 99 not out.
From debuting in 2005 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground to playing his 100th Test in 2025, Mushfiqur has witnessed it all over the last 20 years. He has experienced every phase of international cricket. Most of his teammates from that debut Test have since retired. He now holds the record as the longest-serving Test cricketer in Bangladesh, with 20 years and 181 days of experience.
How has this been possible? His longevity, grit, and hunger for more have kept him thriving. Even at 100 Tests, Mushfiqur remains the same calm, gritty, and astute cricketer he has always been. He has set a high standard for any Bangladeshi player aspiring to play Test cricket, showing the next generation what it truly takes to be a professional in his mould.
During the first innings of his milestone Test, Mushfiqur added six runs before being dismissed. He fell to an extra bounce delivery from Matthew Humphreys, edging it to first slip where Irish skipper Andy Balbirnie took the catch. Even at that moment, Balbirnie celebrated the wicket but immediately congratulated Mushfiqur for his historic achievement.
Back in the dressing room, teammates and coaching staff applauded him. One image captured widespread attention: Mushfiqur walked past the glass door where Mahmudul Hasan Joy was clapping, watching him with awe. Joy is one of the youngsters Mushfiqur has consistently praised. That moment perfectly symbolizes Mushfiqur passing the baton to the next generation, embodying the role of a mentor even while chasing personal milestones.
At a press conference, when asked about being the first Bangladeshi to play 100 Test matches, Mushfiqur admitted he was still in disbelief. Yet, he said he wants to leave a lasting legacy for future stars.
“Alhamdulillah. I still can’t believe that, as a Bangladeshi player, I would play 100 Tests. It’s a huge achievement for any cricketer and a proud moment for any nation. I feel good to be that person, and it brings even greater responsibility. Insha’Allah, I’ll try to show that on the field and leave behind one or two players in the dressing room who can carry things forward after me,” he said.
Playing Test cricket since 2005, Mushfiqur admitted he never imagined reaching 100 Tests. “No, to be honest, I never had this dream. Test cricket has always been my ultimate goal, and as long as I can, I will keep playing.”
His debut Test cap has become a symbol of his career and the country’s cricketing journey. A few days ago, he posted a photo of his torn baggy green cap on social media with the caption, “Companion through every rise and fall.” For Mushfiqur, that cap tells the story of his career, the highs, the lows, and the sacrifices. “The biggest thing in Test cricket is your baggy green cap. If a player doesn’t understand the honour of it, it cannot be explained. This is a symbol for me, and I hope to carry it till my death,” he said.
Mushfiqur also revealed the harsh realities of being a dedicated Test cricketer. The price he has paid for the player he is today is enormous. He is often the first to arrive and the last to leave, whether he has a match or not. Hours of running around SBNCS, gym sessions, and long indoor practices have defined his daily routine.
He spoke about the sacrifices made by his family, particularly his wife Jannatul Qifayat. “I think the biggest sacrifice is the support my wife has given me. I practice more than others, and that would never have been possible without such an environment at home,” he said.
“I’d say it’s a big sacrifice. I have two young children, and while they often stay up late, I never had a sleepless night because she took care of everything. I’m forever grateful to her,” Mushfiqur added.
When asked about his future plans, Mushfiqur spoke about his process-oriented approach. “Honestly, I’m a boring person. I can repeat the same practice every day for years if it’s needed for me and the team. When it comes to professionalism, I don’t compromise,” he said.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s journey is not just about numbers or milestones. It is about the relentless sacrifices, the discipline, and the mental and physical price paid to reach the pinnacle. Every century, every match, and every training session has been a step in building a legacy that will inspire generations of cricketers to come.
