Mushfiqur Rahim scored a milestone century in his 100th Test as Bangladesh defeated Ireland by 217 runs to complete a 2–0 series sweep. (Image Credit: X/ICC)
Bangladesh veteran Mushfiqur Rahim marked a historic moment in his 100th Test match with a classy century, steering his side to a dominant 217-run victory over Ireland in the second Test. With that win, Bangladesh sealed a 2–0 series sweep in the Ireland tour.
Mushfiqur came into the second Test at Mirpur having played 99 Tests. On day two, he calmly nudged a single to reach his century and became only the 11th player in Test history to score a hundred in his 100th match.
The 38-year-old Rahim's knock, 106 runs off 214 deliveries, was built with patience and finesse as his removal of the helmet, raising both hands and dropping to the ground, met a huge ovation.
Mushfiqur wasn't batting alone at the crease as Liton Das joined the act in style, smashing a brilliant 128 to help Bangladesh post a massive 476 in the first innings. The partnership added crucial momentum after Bangladesh had started the day in a tight spot.
On the bowling front, for Bangladesh it was all about the spinners. In Taijul Islam, there was a star - 4-76 in the first and 4-94 in the second, in the process becoming the first Bangladeshi bowler to reach 250 Test wickets. This spin dominance played a key role in stifling the Irish batting lineup.
Even with Ireland trailing by a mammoth margin, Bangladesh decided not to enforce the follow-on. They batted again, as Shadman Islam (78) and Mahmudul Hasan Joy (60) came up with a good 119-run opening partnership.
Later, Mominul Haque played a sedate 87, his third successive fifty-plus knock in the series, to help Bangladesh declare at 297/4. The tactical declaration set Ireland an impossible target of 509 and all but sealed the game for Bangladesh.
Ireland put up some resistance - Curtis Campher making 71 and Harry Tector 50 - as they dug in during their second innings, building partnerships to delay the inevitable. But their lower order couldn't withstand the pressure late on.
Hasan Murad bowled a tight spell and picked up 4-44 as Bangladesh tightened the screws, eventually bundling Ireland out and wrapping up the game.
A century in his 100th Test for Mushfiqur Rahim means more than just numbers; it is about leaving a legacy. He mentioned that he feels honored and realizes the responsibility that comes with such a long and storied career.
Rahim also thanked the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the recognition and support over the years, noting how this achievement can help inspire younger players: “I want to give back … and make sure there are players who can fill my shoes when I leave,” he remarked.
