In a heartfelt announcement, veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has declared his retirement from T20 Internationals. The third and final match of the ongoing series against India, set to be played in Hyderabad, will mark his last appearance in the format.
SOURCE : ZEE
Mahmudullah, who made his T20I debut in 2007, has been a cornerstone of Bangladesh cricket for over a decade. Known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances, he has amassed 2,395 runs in 139 T20I matches at a strike rate of 117.74, and has also taken 40 wickets. His contributions have been pivotal in many of Bangladesh’s memorable victories, including their historic win against India in the 2019 T20I series.
Source:- bbc news
At a pre-match press conference, Mahmudullah explained his decision to retire from T20Is, stating that it was the “right moment to move on from the format” for both himself and the team. “Yes, I’m retiring from T20Is after the last game of this series,” he confirmed. “It was pre-decided. Before coming here, I had a chat with my family, coach, and captain, and I conveyed my decision to the board president as well. I think it is the right time to focus on the one-day games coming ahead”.
Reflecting on his journey, Mahmudullah shared that his role in the team evolved significantly over the years. “Before 2016, my average and strike rate in the T20 format weren’t that great, but I changed my batting approach to fit the finisher’s role,” he said. This adjustment paid off, as he became known for his ability to close out games under pressure, a skill that earned him respect and admiration from fans and teammates alike.
One of Mahmudullah’s most memorable performances came during the 2016 T20 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s campaign. Despite the team’s heartbreaking loss to India, his efforts were widely praised. Another highlight was his match-winning six against India in the 2019 T20I series, a moment that remains etched in the memories of Bangladesh cricket fans.
The announcement of Mahmudullah’s retirement has elicited reactions from across the cricketing world. Teammates, former players, and fans have taken to social media to express their gratitude and admiration for his contributions to the sport. Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan, who recently retired from T20Is himself, praised Mahmudullah’s leadership and dedication. “Mahmudullah has been a true warrior for Bangladesh cricket. His presence on the field will be missed, but his legacy will inspire future generations,” Shakib said.
While Mahmudullah is stepping away from T20Is, he has made it clear that he will continue to play in the ODI format. With the 2025 Champions Trophy on the horizon, he aims to focus on helping Bangladesh achieve success in the 50-over game. “I am looking forward to the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan and West Indies. My goal is to contribute to the team’s success and help us prepare for the Champions Trophy,” he stated.
As Mahmudullah prepares to take the field for his final T20I match, the cricketing community reflects on his remarkable career and the indelible mark he has left on the sport. His retirement marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of cricketers.
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