Mushfiqur looks back on 20 years in international cricket

On this day, May 26, two decades ago, a teenage Mushfiqur Rahim took his first steps into the world of international cricket: a journey that would go on to redefine resilience, longevity and dedication in Bangladesh cricket.

It was 2005 when an 18-year-old Mushfiqur, a surprise inclusion in Bangladesh's squad for their maiden tour of England, debuted at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. 

That day, he became the youngest cricketer to play a Test at the Home of Cricket. Today, as he completes 20 years in international cricket, the memory remains etched in his heart--a sentiment he shared through a nostalgic Facebook post with a heartfelt message and a collage of his career: "Alhamdulillah 20 years of international cricket."

In March this year, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter bid farewell to ODIs, having already stepped away from T20Is in 2022. 

With only Test cricket left in his repertoire, Mushfiqur now stands just four matches away from becoming the first Bangladeshi to play 100 Tests: a milestone that could etch his name even deeper into national cricketing folklore.

However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. His recent dip in form--managing only 44 runs in two home Tests against Zimbabwe-- has raised questions. But if there's one thing Mushfiqur has always proven, it's his ability to bounce back.

Tests: 96 matches, 6055 runs, highest score 219*, average 37.37

ODIs: 274 matches, 7795 runs, highest score 144, average 36.42

T20Is: 102 matches, 1500 runs, highest score 72*, average 19.48