Mushfiqur Rahim Retires from ODI Cricket After Champions Trophy 2025 Exit

Bangladesh Stalwart Retires Following Champions Trophy 2025 Disappointment

Mushfiqur Rahim, the veteran Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batsman, has officially announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 19-year journey in the 50-over format. The decision comes after Bangladesh’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they failed to secure a single victory. The 37-year-old made his decision public via social media on March 5, marking the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket.

In his heartfelt statement, Mushfiqur expressed gratitude towards his supporters while acknowledging the challenges of recent weeks. "I am announcing my retirement from the ODI format as of today. 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. The last few weeks have been very challenging for me, and I have come to realize that this is my destiny," Mushfiqur wrote on his official Facebook page.

A Journey That Began in 2006

Mushfiqur Rahim made his international debut in 2005 and played his first ODI in 2006. His breakthrough moment came during the 2007 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup when he played a match-winning knock of 56* against India, helping Bangladesh register a historic victory in Trinidad. From that moment onwards, he became a mainstay in Bangladesh’s middle order and one of the most dependable players in the team.

Over the years, he amassed 7,795 runs in 274 ODIs at an average of 36.42, including nine centuries and 49 half-centuries. His contributions went beyond just runs, as he also served as the captain of the team, playing a crucial role in Bangladesh’s rise in international cricket.

A Champions Trophy to Forget

Bangladesh’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was nothing short of disastrous. Under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto, the team struggled against top-tier opposition, resulting in a winless exit from the tournament. In their opening game against India, Bangladesh suffered a six-wicket defeat, followed by a crushing loss to New Zealand. Their final group-stage match against Pakistan was washed out due to rain, confirming their elimination from the competition.

Mushfiqur himself had a forgettable tournament, failing to make an impact with the bat. He was dismissed for a golden duck against India and managed only two runs against New Zealand, reflecting his struggles in the latter stages of his career. The disappointment of the tournament seemingly pushed him to make the tough decision to step away from ODIs.

Bangladesh’s Most Capped ODI Cricketer

Rahim retires as Bangladesh’s most capped ODI player, having played 274 matches, more than any other cricketer from his country. His longevity in the format is a testament to his skill, resilience, and dedication to the game. He was also known for his durability, holding the record for most consecutive ODIs played by a Bangladesh cricketer 92 matches between 2010 and 2016.

His contributions were not just limited to his batting. As a wicketkeeper, Mushfiqur was one of the safest pairs of hands behind the stumps, taking crucial catches and executing key stumpings throughout his career. He was instrumental in several of Bangladesh’s most memorable victories, making his retirement a significant moment for Bangladesh cricket.

A Farewell, But Not the End of His Career

While Mushfiqur has stepped away from ODIs, he has made it clear that he will continue playing Test cricket for Bangladesh. With 94 Test matches under his belt, he is aiming to reach the milestone of 100 Test appearances, a feat only a handful of Bangladesh cricketers have achieved. His experience and leadership will continue to be invaluable in the longest format of the game.

In recent years, however, his form had been under scrutiny, and injuries further hampered his ability to perform at the highest level. His last ODI half-century came in March 2024 against Sri Lanka, and since then, he struggled to deliver impactful performances consistently. The decision to retire may give him the opportunity to focus entirely on red-ball cricket, ensuring that he finishes his career on a strong note.

A Legacy That Will Inspire Future Generations

Mushfiqur Rahim’s legacy in Bangladesh cricket is undeniable. From being a teenager who stunned the world in the 2007 World Cup to becoming one of the most accomplished batsmen in Bangladesh’s history, his career has been one of perseverance and excellence. He has been a role model for young cricketers, showcasing what dedication and hard work can achieve.

His journey has been filled with highs and lows, but through it all, he remained a passionate and committed servant of Bangladesh cricket. Fans, fellow players, and cricketing legends have poured in their tributes, acknowledging his contribution to the game. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.