Desk
Share
Dhaka: Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Mahmudullah, 39, officially announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Wednesday, marking the end of his illustrious international career. Having already retired from Test cricket in 2021 and T20Is in 2024, this decision brings an end to his journey in Bangladesh’s national colors.
A Remarkable ODI Career
Mahmudullah played 239 ODIs for Bangladesh, amassing 5689 runs at an impressive average of 36.46. His highest score of 128 against New Zealand* in the 2015 World Cup remains one of his finest innings.
- Centuries: 4 (Three of them in World Cups, a Bangladesh record)
- Half-centuries: 32
- Wickets: 82 (part-time off-spin)
Mahmudullah retires as Bangladesh’s fourth-highest run-scorer in ODIs, earning a reputation as the team’s last line of attack in pressure situations.
Retirement Announcement: "Not Everything Ends Perfectly"
The experienced batter took to Facebook to share an emotional farewell:
"All praises only for the Almighty Allah. I have decided to retire from international cricket. I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches, and especially my fans who have always supported me."
Mahmudullah also thanked his family, particularly his father-in-law and his brother Emdad Ullah, who had been his mentor and coach since childhood.
"And finally, thanks to my wife & kids who have been my support system through thick & thin. I know Raeid will miss me in the red and green jersey. Not everything comes to an end in a perfect way, but you say yes and move forward. Peace, Alhamdulillah. Best wishes to my team & Bangladesh cricket."
Retirement Speculation and Bangladesh’s Poor Champions Trophy Campaign
Mahmudullah’s retirement was anticipated after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) revealed that he had opted out of central contracts.
His place in the team had been under scrutiny following Bangladesh’s disappointing 2025 ICC Champions Trophy campaign, where the team failed to win a single game:
- Lost to India and New Zealand
- Match against Pakistan washed out due to rain
His decision to step away follows the recent retirement of another Bangladesh legend, Mushfiqur Rahim, who also bid farewell to ODI cricket last week.
Mahmudullah’s International Legacy
Aside from ODIs, Mahmudullah also represented Bangladesh in:
- 50 Tests → 2914 runs (last Test vs. Zimbabwe, Harare 2021)
- 141 T20Is → 2444 runs (last T20I vs. India, Hyderabad 2024)
His contributions with both bat and ball have left a lasting impact on Bangladesh cricket. While his career may not have ended on the perfect note, his legacy as a fighter, leader, and match-winner remains unforgettable.
Bangladesh cricket moves forward, but Mahmudullah’s presence and influence will be deeply missed.
