Bangladesh cricket is gearing up for a historic moment as veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim inches closer to becoming the first Bangladeshi player to feature in 100 Test matches. The milestone is expected to arrive during the upcoming two-Test series against Ireland, a moment that promises to be etched in the nation’s cricketing history.
Current Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has expressed his eagerness to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside the team. Speaking ahead of the first Test, Shanto emphasised that such milestones are not only personal triumphs but also opportunities for collective celebration and team unity.
“The prospect of celebrating Mushfiq bhai’s 100th Test is genuinely thrilling,” said Shanto. “Personally, I want the team to savour every moment over these two Test matches. If he remains fit, we will make the most of those five days and ensure the celebrations reflect the significance of his career. Inshallah, he will stay healthy and play both games.”
The first Test of the series is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, marking Mushfiqur’s 99th Test appearance. The stage will then be set for his historic 100th Test in Dhaka later this month.
At 38, Mushfiqur Rahim remains the most experienced active Test cricketer in Bangladesh. Over nearly two decades, he has scored 6,328 runs in 98 matches, including 12 centuries, 27 fifties, and three double centuries — a feat unmatched in Bangladesh’s cricket history.
Shanto spoke about the invaluable presence of Mushfiqur in the dressing room. “Having someone with his experience is always special. In Test cricket, the ability to remain calm under pressure is priceless, and Mushfiq bhai exemplifies that. Watching how he handles crunch situations inspires all of us.”
The second and final Test of the series will take place on 19 November at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, where fans and teammates alike will witness what promises to be a historic occasion. For Bangladesh cricket, Mushfiqur’s 100th Test is not just a statistic but a celebration of resilience, discipline, and unwavering dedication to the sport.
