After a remarkable 19-year career spanning 6,787 days, Mushfiqur Rahim has officially retired from ODI cricket. His departure marks the end of an era for Bangladesh, as he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, brilliance, and an unwavering commitment to the game.
A pivotal member of Bangladesh’s famed ‘Fab Five’—alongside Shakib Al Hasan, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, and Mahmudullah—Mushfiqur has been a cornerstone of the country’s cricketing rise on the global stage.
Rightly called ‘Mr. Dependable,’ Mushfiqur was the pillar of consistency for Bangladesh. Whether the team was in trouble or needed an anchor, he stood tall, carrying the batting lineup on his shoulders time and again. His ability to handle pressure, play according to the situation, and accelerate when needed made him one of the most reliable batsmen in Bangladesh’s history.
Mushfiq played the highest number of ODIs for Bangladesh, featuring in 274 matches. His ODI career is the eighth longest in international cricket history and the longest for any Bangladeshi cricketer.
He retires as the second-highest run-scorer for the country in the format (7,795 runs), just behind Tamim Iqbal (8,357 runs).
His role as Bangladesh’s most prolific number four batsman is undeniable, having scored 4,372 runs in 118 innings from that position—the highest for any Bangladeshi batsman.
From 2013 to 2023, he was the second-highest run-scorer at number four in the world, amassing 3,762 runs in 96 innings, only behind New Zealand’s Ross Taylor, who scored 5182 runs.
Beyond numbers, Mushfiqur’s impact goes deeper.
His work ethic, professionalism, and leadership set a benchmark for the younger generation. His relentless dedication to fitness and technical refinement ensured that he remained a key figure in Bangladesh cricket for nearly two decades.
His meticulous approach to training, sharp cricketing mind, and determination to evolve with the game made him a role model for aspiring cricketers.
A player of immense technical ability and mental toughness, Mushfiqur has had his share of ups and downs. However, his ability to overcome adversities and deliver when it mattered most defined his career.
His 144 against Sri Lanka in the 2018 Asia Cup, scored while battling a broken rib, remains Bangladesh’s highest individual score in any tournament outside of a bilateral series—a testament to his courage and dedication. Another unforgettable knock came in the 2012 Asia Cup against India, where his unbeaten 46 off 25 balls under pressure led Bangladesh to a famous win.
Despite his heroics, his career was not without heartbreaks.
The 2019 World Cup match against New Zealand remains a painful chapter. A miscalculated run-out attempt of Kane Williamson cost Bangladesh not just the match but also a potential deep run in the tournament.
However, such moments of despair do not overshadow the immense contributions Mushfiqur made over the years.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) extended heartfelt thanks to Mushfiqur Rahim on Thursday for his outstanding contributions to the country’s ODI cricket. He also received a guard of honour from his Mohammedan Sporting Club teammates during their Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match against Rupganj Tigers Cricket Club at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on the same day.
Mushfiqur’s ODI legacy will endure, not just in record books but in the hearts of fans who witnessed his brilliance. As he bids farewell to ODIs, Bangladesh cricket will feel the void of a player who has been instrumental in shaping its modern identity. While he continues in Test matches his absence in the 50-over game will be deeply felt.
Bd-Pratidin English/ARK
