Mushfiqur's ton – not just record-breaking, but inspiring and series defining

Mushfiqur Rahim created history on his own terms, followed by his trademark celebration at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Monday. The 39-year old batter is now Bangladesh's highest Test centurion with 14 hundreds, surpassing Mominul Haque's record of 13.

The landmark also made him the oldest centurion in World Test Championship history at 39 years and seven days.

Among batters with a minimum of 25 Tests since January 2025, Mushfiqur averages 46.51 for his 1907 runs. Only Dinesh Chandimal, Harry Brook, Joe Root and Yashasvi Jaiswal sit above him.

For all the records broken, his innings meant more. It could be a match and series-defining knock against Pakistan. The opposition attacked with short balls and defensive fields, but he absorbed pressure, found gaps and kept Bangladesh moving forward.

His 137 helped Bangladesh post 390 after resuming at 110 for 3 with a lead of 156. He was caught at deep mid wicket off Sajid Khan, setting Pakistan a target of 437.

Taijul Islam said Mushfiqur's ton was a learning experience.

"A century is always a huge achievement. When a senior player contributes like this, junior players get inspired. They understand how to hold position and build partnerships. Having three or four senior players is a blessing. They anticipate situations and know what the team needs."