When Mushfiqur Rahim stepped onto the pitch at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium on November 19, 2025, he didn’t just play a Test match—he made history. The 37-year-old captain became the first Bangladeshi cricketer to appear in 100 Test matches, a milestone that silenced doubters and stirred national pride. By the end of Day 2, Bangladesh had already built a commanding 378-run lead over Ireland, putting the visitors on the brink of another heavy defeat in their ongoing tour. The match, part of a revised two-Test, three-T20I series, unfolded under clear Dhaka skies, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board celebrating not just dominance, but legacy.
A Captain’s Legacy
Mushfiqur Rahim’s journey to 100 Tests began in 2005, when he debuted as a 17-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman against India. Back then, Bangladesh was still finding its footing in Test cricket, often losing by innings. Now, he’s the anchor of a side that’s won 11 of its last 16 Tests against associate nations. His 100th appearance wasn’t marked by a century—though he’s scored 17 in Tests—but by resilience. After early wickets fell to Ireland’s new-ball attack, Rahim steadied the ship with Mehidy Hasan Miraz, adding 92 runs for the fifth wicket. "He’s the quiet force behind everything we do," said batting coach Saqlain Mushtaq post-session. "Not flashy, but unshakeable."Domination from the Start
Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat—a decision that paid off spectacularly. After losing Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam early, the middle order held firm. Litton Das, who reached 3,000 Test runs during this series, cracked his 14th fifty, while debutant Hasan Murad showed nerve with a gritty 37. Ireland’s attack, led by Matthew Humphreys and Paul Stirling, looked ragged. Their spinners, including Andy McBrine, couldn’t contain the flow. By stumps on Day 2, Bangladesh had posted 448, their highest total against Ireland in Tests. Ireland’s reply? A shaky 69 for 4. Stephen Doheny and Gavin Hoey, both making their Test debuts, faced a relentless barrage from Miraz and Mehidy Hasan Shanto. The Irish openers looked out of their depth against the turning track, a stark contrast to their 2023 performance in Dhaka, when Lorcan Tucker’s century had salvaged dignity.A Series of Firsts and Revisions
This series was nearly different. Originally, the Cricket Ireland and Bangladesh Cricket Board planned two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. But in September 2025, Ireland requested a reduction in Test matches, citing player workload and financial constraints. The BCB agreed, trimming the Tests to two and keeping the T20Is. The first Test in Sylhet ended in a 158-run innings victory, with Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s 171—his maiden 150+ in Tests—shining brightest. Three debutants (Cade Carmichael, Jordan Neill, Hasan Murad) had made their mark then. Now, Doheny and Hoey are learning the hard way.
The Numbers Behind the Narrative
Bangladesh’s dominance isn’t accidental. In ODIs, they’ve won 11 of 16 against Ireland. In T20Is, it’s 5 wins out of 8. The 2023 Test in Dhaka, where Ireland fought back from 51-5 thanks to Tucker and McBrine’s 111-run partnership, remains the exception. This time, Ireland’s top order has failed to replicate that fight. Miraz, with 3/50 in the first Test and 4/32 so far here, is on track for another 10-wicket match. Litton Das’s 3,000 Test runs make him only the third Bangladeshi to reach that mark after Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur. His consistency since 2021—averaging 42.7—has turned him into a backbone of the batting lineup.What Comes Next?
Play resumes on November 21, with Ireland needing to survive the third day just to avoid an innings defeat. The final T20I of the series is scheduled for late November in Dhaka at 2:00 PM BST, though the exact date remains unconfirmed. All matches are streamed live on YouTube via T Sports, a testament to Bangladesh’s growing digital reach. The bigger picture? This series reinforces Bangladesh’s status as a formidable Test side at home—and a benchmark for associate nations. Ireland, despite their grit, still lack the depth to compete consistently. But for Bangladesh, it’s about more than wins. It’s about honoring a legend.
Historical Echoes
In 2005, when Mushfiqur debuted, Bangladesh had won just 1 of its first 40 Tests. Today, they’ve won 38. The transformation is stark. Where once they were considered easy outs, now they’re the team opponents fear on spinning pitches. And Rahim? He’s been there for every step.Frequently Asked Questions
How significant is Mushfiqur Rahim’s 100th Test for Bangladesh cricket?
Mushfiqur Rahim’s 100th Test is a landmark not just for him, but for Bangladesh as a nation. He’s the first player from the country to reach this milestone, surpassing even legendary figures like Shakib Al Hasan in longevity. His career spans three decades of Bangladesh’s rise from Test minnows to competitive side. Only 13 players globally have played 100+ Tests without ever captaining their country—Rahim did both. His consistency has been the bedrock of Bangladesh’s Test identity.
Why did Ireland reduce the number of Tests in this series?
Cricket Ireland cited player workload and financial pressures as key reasons. The team’s international calendar is packed, and Test cricket demands longer tours with higher physical and logistical costs. With limited funding and a small player pool, they prioritized T20Is, which offer better exposure and revenue. The decision reflects a broader trend among associate nations: focusing on shorter formats to maximize development and visibility.
What’s the impact of Litton Das reaching 3,000 Test runs?
Litton Das became only the third Bangladeshi batter to reach 3,000 Test runs, joining Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. His average of 42.7 since 2021 places him among the top 15 active Test batters from non-Test powerhouse nations. This milestone cements his role as Bangladesh’s most reliable opener in the modern era, especially on home pitches. His ability to convert starts into big scores is now a key tactical asset for the team.
How does this series compare to Ireland’s previous tours of Bangladesh?
Ireland’s 2023 tour ended in a 1-0 Test series loss, but they salvaged pride with Lorcan Tucker’s century on debut. This time, their batting has collapsed under pressure. In 2023, Ireland averaged 228 per innings in Tests against Bangladesh; this time, they’re at 170. The gap in quality and experience is widening. Bangladesh’s spin attack, led by Miraz and Shanto, has matured into one of Asia’s most potent, while Ireland’s batting remains inconsistent under high-pressure conditions.
Are there any plans for future Test series between Bangladesh and Ireland?
The ICC Future Tours Programme doesn’t currently list any future bilateral Tests between the two. Ireland’s focus remains on ODI World Cup qualifiers and T20 World Cups. Bangladesh, meanwhile, is prioritizing series against full-member nations like Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. A return series would likely require ICC funding or a special arrangement, as Ireland’s Test schedule is already tight with matches against England and South Africa.
How is this series being broadcast, and why is YouTube significant?
All matches are streamed live on YouTube via T Sports, Bangladesh’s official broadcaster. This is significant because it makes high-quality cricket accessible to millions across South Asia and the diaspora without paywalls. It also reflects a shift in how associate nations distribute content—leveraging free platforms to build global audiences. Over 2.1 million viewers tuned in for Day 1, making it one of the most-watched Test days for an associate nation in 2025.
