Mushfiqur Rahim Determined to Continue Giving Back to Bangladesh Cricket After Mirpur Century

Bangladesh’s most successful test batter, Mushfiqur Rahim, is currently playing his 100th test at Mirpur. He has vowed to keep giving back to Bangladesh cricket for as long as he remains active on the field. The veteran batter shared these sentiments after scoring yet another century on home ground, giving his team a strong footing in the 2nd test match against Ireland.  

Representing Bangladesh in the 100th test is no ordinary feat for Mushfiqur Rahim. He has become the first-ever cricketer from Bangladesh to achieve this milestone. This highlights Mushfiqur’s immense commitment towards Bangladesh test cricket. He is an example for youngsters who are looking to become successful in test cricket, as Mushfiqur’s resilience and work ethic are a perfect guiding light for them.

"I can't believe that someone from Bangladesh has played a hundred Tests, so it's really a huge achievement. It is a proud moment for any player. So obviously I am happy that I could be that person. There's more responsibility on me. I want to give back for as long as I am playing for Bangladesh, and I want to ensure there are one or two players who can fill my gap when I have left the dressing room.” said Mushfiqur Rahim at the post-day press conference.

Describing the magnitude of the achievement, Mushfiqur Rahim said that playing 100 tests for Bangladesh is an honor for him. He has learned plenty of things while playing test cricket, which has allowed him to become better as the years passed on.

"I think 100 is a huge number, so I have learned many things while getting there. I have tried to gather experience and learned how to stay calm. To be honest, I really want to thank the BCB for what they planned on the first morning.” said Mushfiqur Rahim.

“It really feels great and I really felt honoured. I think this type of recognition can work as an inspiration for cricketers. It is important for them to dream that they want to play 100 Tests." added Mushfiqur Rahim.

The star batter of Bangladesh went back to the pavilion on 99* at the end of the first day of the Mirpur test. He was therefore eager to complete his century the next morning, as it was a historic achievement for him. He was also looking to score more runs after the century, however, he remained unlucky in that.

"I tried to reach the milestone last evening since these things are not easy. They could have bowled one more over but I understand it is a tactical thing. I think we would have done the same thing if we were the fielding side.” said Mushfiqur Rahim.

"At the same time, I wanted to score a big hundred, rather than just getting to the mark. I tried to motivate myself that I want to score 60 or 70 more runs, not just the one run. I wanted to bat till Litton got to his century. I couldn't do it, but Miraz batted well after that," added Mushfiqur Rahim.

Prioritizing the Team Before Personal Glory

At the start of the first day of the Mirpur test, the players of the Bangladesh team were quite excited to celebrate the milestone of their senior wicketkeeper batter. However, Mushfiqur Rahim advised them to pay attention to the match, as winning it is their first priority.

"I told the team huddle on the first day that the team always comes first. Mushfiqur Rahim is because of Bangladesh. I think I am like a drop in the ocean. Bangladesh comes first, and a win in this Test match will be my biggest gift whether I score or not," said Mushfiqur Rahim.

Scoring a brilliant century in the 100th test has reminded everyone why Mushfiqur Rahim is a special talent of Bangladesh. He is looking forward to creating more records in the future, however, winning the ongoing test and sealing the series is his core objective currently.