Dhaka: Bangladesh veteran wicket-keeper and batter Mushfiqur Rahim has announced his retirement from the ODI format, concluding a 19-year-long career. The 37-year-old will continue to play Test cricket, having previously retired from the T20 format following the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rahim holds the Bangladesh record for most consecutive ODIs, having played 92 matches between 2010 and 2016.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mushfiqur revealed his decision through a post on his verified Facebook page. "I am announcing my retirement from the ODI format as of today," he wrote. Reflecting on his career, he stated, "Alhamdulillah for everything. While our achievements may have been limited on a global level, one thing is certain: whenever I stepped onto the field for my country, I gave more than 100% with dedication and honesty." His decision comes after a challenging period, including a lack of form in the recent Champions Trophy, where he failed to score a half-century in his last 14 innings.
In his announcement, Mushfiqur quoted the Quran, "Allah says in the Quran: 'Wa tu'izzu man tasha' wa tu'zhilu man tasha'' - 'And He honours whom He wills, and He disgraces whom He wills.' (3:26)" expressing gratitude and seeking forgiveness. He thanked his family, friends, and fans for their support throughout his cricketing journey.
Mushfiqur made his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in August 2006, gaining prominence during the 2007 World Cup. As part of Bangladesh's "Fab 5," he contributed significantly to the team's international success. He retires as Bangladesh's most capped ODI player with 274 matches, accumulating 7,795 runs at an average of 36.42, including nine centuries with a career-best of 144. As a wicketkeeper, he took 243 catches and made 56 stumpings.
Additionally, Mushfiqur is among only five wicket-keepers to have played more than 250 ODIs and ranks fourth in centuries hit by a keeper-batter, trailing only Kumar Sangakkara, Adam Gilchrist, and MS Dhoni. He is poised to become the first Bangladeshi to reach the 100-Test mark, currently at 94 matches.