On the morning of Mushfiqur Rahim’s landmark 100th Test appearance, his former teammate Shakib Al Hasan wrote an emotional message hailing his impact on him and Bangladesh cricket. Barred from playing for Bangladesh for being a part of Awami League party which was overthrown, Shakib recalled how Mushfiqur inspired him as a young captain.
“I remember when you played your 1st test match in Lords I watched every ball from the recreation room in BKSP. From that day on you inspired me and countless cricketers in Bangladesh and beyond. You have been playing for a while and you have given your best to your game. From the time you were leading age level team I saw you as my captain and till now and forever I play cricket you will be my captain,” Shakib wrote in an Instagram account.
Shakib who plays franchise cricket across the world said that he will face every delivery Mushfiqur will face in his 100th Test.
“Mushfiq bhai on this auspicious moment I wish you all the best for your 100th test match, a historic feat for any cricketer. Just like I watched your first match I will watch every ball you face on your 100th test match. I hope you enjoy this match and I wish I played it with you and celebrated your glory on field,” the legendary all-rounder further wrote.
What did Mushfiqur Rahim say on his 100th Test?
Mushfiqur scripted history as he stepped on the field at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka for the second Test of the series against Ireland. He is the first Bangladesh player to play 100 Tests.
“I would like to thank all of you, my family, and especially my wife, who has spent a lot of sleepless nights for me, and most importantly, my teammates and my coaches, my friends back home, and also all my fans. So I just want to wish all the best for Bangladesh cricket in the future. I will give my 100%, as I always try. And I hope for the best," Rahim said before the game as he was presented with signed jerseys of the playing XI from both sides and a memento from former captain Akram Khan.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s Test record
Rahim is also the leading run-scorer for Bangladesh in the Test format. He has 6,351 runs from 182 innings at an average of 38.02 already. He has 12 centuries, second-most by a Bangladesh batter in the format.