Momentous milestone looms for Mashrafe

If Bangladesh win the third and final ODI against Zimbabwe in Sylhet tomorrow, it will be the 50th victory for Mashrafe Bin Mortaza as Bangladesh captain.

Having won the first two matches to secure the series, the momentums is firmly with Bangladesh and the hosts will eye a clean sweep when they take on the visitors at the Sylhet International Stadium.

Since 2010, Mashrafe has led Bangladesh in ODIs in two stints and is the country's most successful captain, with 49 wins in 87 matches.

The Narail cricketer is followed by former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar in the list. Now a member of the national selection panel, Bashar had led Bangladesh to 29 wins in 69 games during his tenure from 2004 to 2007.

"Personally, it is nothing special for me but a big achievement for the team for winning these many matches. But is nothing for me if you ask me. The next game will be like any other game. Will have the intention to win," said Mashrafe Bin Mortaza yesterday.

Opening batsman Tamim Iqbal was however thrilled with Mashrafe being on verge of the momentous milestone.

"It is a big achievement for both Mashrafe and the team. It is not easy to lead the team to 50 victories. It was once unimaginable for any of our captains. It is not only the 50 wins but everything that Mashrafe has done for our country, that will always be remembered," said Tamim.