When Bangladesh face Ireland in the final Test of the two-match series at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on November 19, Mushfiqur Rahim will enter cricket folklore.
The diminutive wicketkeeper-batter is set to become the first Bangladeshi to reach the 100-Test milestone, a feat unmatched in the country’s cricketing history.
Two Decades of Relentless Commitment
Former Bangladesh captain and current national batting coach Mohammad Ashraful believes this achievement springs from Mushfiqur’s unwavering commitment to his craft. Speaking with Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net), Ashraful highlighted how the veteran’s preparation, daily routines, and near-obsessive work ethic elevated him to this rarefied level of consistency in international cricket.
Discipline is the only reason he’s reached this stage.
From Lord’s to Mirpur—A Journey Witnessed Firsthand
Ashraful reflected fondly on witnessing Mushfiqur’s debut at Lord’s and expressed pride at again being present for this historic moment.
I feel very fortunate that I was in the dressing room at Lord’s during Mushfiq’s debut match and hopefully will be there when he reaches the milestone.
He added that both present and future generations should look to Mushfiqur as a role model for professional behavior and long-term excellence.
Mastering His Game Through Self-Awareness
According to Ashraful, Mushfiqur’s evolution as a batter is a testament to understanding one’s strengths and limits—an essential ingredient for success in international cricket.
He understood what he needed to do within his capacity… what kind of training he needed to do individually to earn success, and that helped him a lot.
A Career Fueled by Pure Love for Cricket
Ashraful described Mushfiqur as a “genuine performer” whose passion for the game surpasses distractions that often pull athletes in different directions.
He is one cricketer who loves playing cricket, and he is different from everybody else… When you play for so many years, it’s not because of name but because of performances.
From an early age, Mushfiqur displayed strong technique and self-belief, traits Ashraful believes set him apart.
A Celebration Fit for a Pioneer
The Bangladesh Cricket Board is planning special celebrations to honor Mushfiqur Rahim’s entry into the elite 100-Test club, commemorating one of the finest ambassadors the country has produced.
