Mushfiqur Rahim Reflects on 100th Test Milestone, Says He Aims to “Give Back” to Bangladesh Cricket

Bangladesh’s veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim said his two decades of international experience helped him cope with the pressure and expectations surrounding his 100th Test match — a landmark he marked in style with a century. He became only the eleventh player in history to score a hundred in his 100th Test, guiding Bangladesh out of early trouble on the opening morning.

Mushfiqur stitched together two crucial century partnerships: 107 with Mominul Haque for the fourth wicket and 108 with Litton Das for the fifth. But he had to endure a tense night on 99*, waiting to return the next day to complete the milestone. His performance came as no surprise, however, with the senior batter carrying good form from Bangladesh’s previous Test series in June.

Reflecting on his achievement, Mushfiqur said he still struggled to fully grasp the magnitude of becoming the first Bangladeshi to play 100 Tests.
“I can't believe that someone from Bangladesh has played a hundred Tests… it’s a huge achievement,” he said. “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.”

He credited the Bangladesh Cricket Board for their gesture on the first morning of the Test, calling the recognition “inspirational” for future players and a reminder that sustained Test careers are worth aspiring to.

Mushfiqur admitted he had been pushing for a big hundred in the first innings, not just the single run he needed to complete the milestone.
“I tried to motivate myself that I want to score 60 or 70 more runs, not just the one run,” he said. “I wanted to bat till Litton got to his century. I couldn’t do it, but Miraz batted well after that.”

The week has been filled with tributes from former team-mates and coaches, prompting reflection on a career defined by dedication to Test cricket. Mushfiqur reiterated that personal milestones remain secondary to team success.
“I told the team huddle that the team always comes first. Mushfiqur Rahim is because of Bangladesh. A win in this Test match will be my biggest gift whether I score or not.”

He dedicated his landmark century to his late grandparents — the people he described as his biggest fans.
“Their blessings have brought me this far,” he said.

Looking ahead, Mushfiqur said he is focused on Bangladesh’s next Test assignment — a two-match home series against Pakistan in April — but kept his long-term plans private.
“I know I have to keep improving. I want to play as long as the team and team management wants me to play,” he said.