Mushfiqur Rahim Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket Following Bangladesh's Champions Trophy Setback

Mushfiqur Rahim, the esteemed Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter, has officially announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket. This decision comes on the heels of Bangladesh's disappointing campaign at the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where Rahim played his final match in the format. The 37-year-old had previously retired from T20 internationals in 2022, and now, after a remarkable career, he will exclusively focus on Test cricket for his country. Rahim shared his decision via heartfelt posts on his official Facebook and Instagram accounts, bringing an end to his illustrious ODI career.

A LEGENDARY CAREER CULMINATES AS BANGLADESH’S MOST CAPPED ODI PLAYER

With a career spanning nearly two decades, Mushfiqur Rahim has etched his name in Bangladesh cricket history. He is the most capped player in ODI cricket for his country, having played 274 matches, a feat no other Bangladeshi cricketer has achieved. His final appearance in the 50-over format came during the ongoing Champions Trophy against New Zealand, where he could only manage two runs across two innings. With the next major ICC tournament still two years away, Rahim, at the age of 37, has made the decision to retire from ODIs, signalling the end of an era.

Rahim’s decision to step away from the format is not only a personal one but also marks the closing of a significant chapter in Bangladesh's cricketing history. As the second-highest run-scorer for Bangladesh in ODIs, only behind Tamim Iqbal, Rahim's contributions to the team are invaluable. Over the years, he amassed an impressive record, with 9 centuries and 49 half-centuries, and played a pivotal role in many of Bangladesh's historic victories on the international stage. His consistency and ability to anchor the innings made him a key figure in Bangladesh’s batting lineup for over a decade.

A CAREER BUILT ON DEDICATION AND SERVICE TO BANGLADESH CRICKET

Mushfiqur Rahim made his ODI debut in 2006 against Zimbabwe, and from then on, he became a fixture in the team, representing Bangladesh with immense pride and determination. Throughout his career, Rahim not only provided stability with the bat but also excelled behind the stumps. He is widely regarded as one of the finest wicketkeeper-batsmen to have emerged from Bangladesh, combining his technical proficiency with leadership qualities. Rahim's leadership also shone through when he captained the national team across all formats, earning respect for his tactical acumen and commitment.

His five appearances in 50-over World Cups are a testament to his longevity and consistency. He has been at the heart of Bangladesh’s cricketing evolution, playing a crucial role in shaping the team into one that has been competitive on the world stage. From unforgettable victories to fierce battles, Rahim’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the annals of Bangladesh cricket.

A HEARTFELT FAREWELL AND THANKS TO SUPPORTERS

In his retirement announcement, Mushfiqur Rahim expressed his gratitude towards his fans, family, and all those who have supported him throughout his cricketing journey. He thanked the people of Bangladesh for their unwavering backing and affection, which have been a constant source of motivation for him. Rahim's words resonated deeply with his supporters as he bid adieu to one of the most distinguished careers in international cricket. While he steps away from the ODI format, Rahim’s focus will now shift to Test cricket, where he has remained an integral part of the team.

A SAD DAY FOR CRICKET FANS WORLDWIDE

Mushfiqur Rahim's retirement marks the end of an era in Bangladesh cricket. His announcement comes just a day after Australian star Steve Smith revealed his own decision to retire from the ODI format, making March 2025 a sombre time for cricket fans around the world. The cricketing community will undoubtedly miss Rahim’s presence on the field, but his legacy as one of the greatest wicketkeeper-batsmen to play the game will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come.

As Rahim closes this chapter of his illustrious career, the cricketing world looks forward to seeing how he continues to contribute to Bangladesh’s success in the longest format of the game, as his journey is far from over.