Source - X account @BCBtigers
Mahmudullah To Retire from T20Is After Final Match Against India
Bangladesh’s veteran cricketer Mahmudullah has announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, confirming that the upcoming match against India at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad, on Saturday will be his final appearance in the shortest format.
The experienced all-rounder revealed that his decision to step away from T20Is was “pre-decided” to focus more on One-Day Internationals (ODIs) as he aims to contribute further to the national team.
Mahmudullah’s Last T20I Appearance Against India
The second T20I between India and Bangladesh will mark Mahmudullah’s farewell from T20Is. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the 38-year-old shared that he had already discussed his decision with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and his family. “I felt it was the right time for me to make this transition and concentrate on the upcoming ODI matches,” he said.
Mahmudullah’s final T20I comes nearly four years after he led Bangladesh to a memorable victory over India in a T20I in Delhi in 2019. Recalling that special win, where he finished the game with a maximum, Mahmudullah expressed nostalgia and hopes for a positive finish to his T20I career.
A Storied T20I Career
In his T20I career, Mahmudullah played 139 matches, amassing 2,395 runs at a strike rate of 117.74. He also contributed with the ball, taking 40 wickets. Known for his adaptability and commitment, Mahmudullah adjusted to various roles within the team, often putting the team’s needs ahead of personal accolades. He remarked that he has no regrets about playing in different positions throughout his career.
Focus Shifts to ODIs
As Mahmudullah prepares for his final T20I, his focus now shifts entirely to the ODI format, where he will look to continue his contributions to the national side. The all-rounder also emphasized the need for Bangladesh to adopt a fearless approach in the remaining games against India, especially after a 7-wicket defeat in the opening match of the series.
“We need to come out of that zone and play fearless cricket,” Mahmudullah noted, highlighting his desire for the team to perform better in the upcoming matches.
Mahmudullah’s retirement from T20Is marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket, and his departure will leave a void in the team. As he bids farewell, fans and teammates alike will cherish his dedication and many memorable performances in the format.
