Mushfiqur Rahim, often called “Mushi” by fans, is not just another name in Bangladesh cricket — he is an institution. As of 19 November 2025, he reached a landmark: playing his 100th Test match, becoming the first Bangladeshi cricketer ever to hit triple digits in this format. But that story isn’t just about quantity — it’s deeply entwined with grit, legacy, and bittersweet drama.
1. The Historic 100th Test: A Moment of Immense Significance
On Day 1 of the second Test against Ireland in Mirpur, Bangladesh ended the day at 292/4. At the crease, Mushfiqur was unbeaten on 99. ESPN+2The Daily Star+2
That 99* wasn’t just a scoreboard number — it symbolized decades of dedication. India Today+1 Despite the surrounding fanfare and pressure of his 100th match, he played with his trademark patience, resilience, and poise. India Today+2The Daily Star+2
Before the match, there was a touching ceremony: Habibul Bashar, who had presented Mushfiqur his first-ever Test cap, handed him a commemorative 100th cap. India Today+1 The moment embodied both respect and nostalgia, reflecting how much Mushfiqur’s journey means to Bangladesh cricket.
2. The Agony of One Run: When History Nearly Became a Fairytale
Walking off on 99 in your 100th Test? That’s a kind of drama very few international cricketers experience. India Today According to India Today:
Mushfiqur “is set for a sleepless night after finishing Day 1 unbeaten on 99 … denied the chance to complete it when the umpires removed the bails after 90 overs on the day were completed.” India Today
It’s heartbreak and hope rolled into one — Mushfiqur will return on Day 2 with the chance to convert that 99 into a truly historic century. Cricbuzz+1 As things stand, if he crosses 100, he’ll join a very, very elite club: only a handful of batsmen in Test cricket history have scored a century in their 100th Test.
3. The Knock That Defined the Day
That innings of 99 wasn’t just about surviving — it was about carrying Bangladesh forward. Cricbuzz After early trouble, he anchored the innings, playing with characteristic maturity and composure. The Daily Star
A big moment came with a partnership with Mominul Haque. The two stitched together a 107-run stand, steadying Bangladesh when it looked wobbly. Cricbuzz+1 Then, later in the day, he added 90+ runs with Litton Das to close the day strongly. Cricbuzz The kind of innings that begs respect — not flashy, but vital.
4. Legacy & Longevity: Why This Milestone Matters
Reaching 100 Tests is rare in modern cricket — even more so for players from emerging cricket nations like Bangladesh. Mushfiqur’s longevity speaks of his skill, fitness, and mental toughness.
He’s not just playing — he’s shaping a legacy:
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First Bangladeshi to play 100 Tests: This cements his place as a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s Test history. Crifo Sports
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Consistency over decades: Debuting in the mid-2000s, Mushfiqur has remained relevant through changing teams, formats, and expectations.
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Experienced leader: Beyond batting, his role as a wicket-keeper and senior cricketer gives him a mentorship edge.
A piece called “The Iron Man of Bangladesh’s Test Cricket” underlines how Mushfiqur is more than just talent — he’s foundational. Crifo Sports
5. Career in Context: What’s He Achieved So Far
To appreciate the weight of today, we must look at what came before:
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In October 2024, he became the first Bangladeshi to cross 6,000 Test runs. Daily Observer
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Back in earlier years, he notched up big scores and vital innings even when conditions weren’t easy. Sports Yaari
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In shorter formats, he had a long and distinguished career — before retiring from ODIs in 2025, he played 274 ODIs. India Today
His career is not just about volume; it’s about impact. Whether it’s anchoring under pressure or steering the middle order, Mushfiqur has often been Bangladesh’s go-to player when things matter.
6. Emotional Resonance: For Fans, For Cricket, For Bangladesh
For fans, this 100th Test is more than a stat — it’s a celebration. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on what Mushfiqur means to Bangladesh cricket. The old guard (former captains, teammates) joining the felicitation ceremony underscores this.
There’s also a symbolic aspect: in a cricketing landscape that’s often dominated by stars chasing big-money T20s, Mushfiqur’s presence and commitment to Test cricket feel like a rallying call for the longer format.
And personally — for Mushfiqur — this is a test of the mind. He’s on 99; one day to make history. If he converts, it’s a fairytale. If not, it’s still a testament to endurance and class.
7. What Comes Next: Anticipation for Day 2 and Beyond
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Day 2 Focus: All eyes will be on him. Can he cross that 100-run mark? The crowd, his teammates, and the cricketing world will be watching.
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Strategic Implications: Bangladesh’s 292/4 gives a solid base. With a big knock from Mushfiqur, they could push for a big first-innings total.
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Legacy Building: If he gets his hundred, it will be an iconic moment. But even without it, just getting to 100 Tests is a legacy in itself.
8. Final Thoughts: The Iron Man’s Moment
Mushfiqur Rahim’s 100th Test is not just personal — it’s national. It reminds us that Test cricket, for all its challenges, remains a format where legends are built. His journey, from debut to this day, is a story of resilience, skill, and deep love for the game.
Walking off Day 1 at 99 is poetic: it’s almost Shakespearean in its tension. But whether he hits the century or not, Mushfiqur has already written a glorious chapter in Bangladesh cricket history.