Introduction
Mahmudullah, a name synonymous with Bangladesh cricket, has carved a remarkable journey in the sport. From humble beginnings, Mahmudullah’s career blossomed through dedication and sheer determination. Starting as a promising talent, Mahmudullah steadily climbed the ranks, overcoming challenges with resilience. His journey is a testament to perseverance and passion, inspiring fans and fellow cricketers alike. Today, Mahmudullah stands tall as a pivotal figure in Bangladesh cricket, his impact echoing through every match he plays.
Mahmudullah Biography
| Full Name | Mohammad Mahmudullah Riyad |
| Nickname | Mahmudullah |
| Place Of Birth | Mymensingh, Bangladesh |
| Born | 4 February 1986 |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Jersey No. | 30 (ICC) |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed Bat |
| Bowling Style | Right arm off break |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Hobbies | Cycling, Fishing |
| Mahmudhullah’s Instagram | @mohammad_mahmudullah |
| Mahmudhullah’s Facebook | @Mahmudullah.Riyad |
| Mahmudhullah’s Twitter | @Mahmudullah30 |
Personal Life
Mahmudullah married Jannatul Kawsar Mishti in June 2011, and they have two sons, Raeed and Mayed. He is also related to cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim through marriage.
Mahmudullah Career
Mohammad Mahmudullah, known affectionately as Riyad, was born on February 4, 1986, in Bangladesh. Throughout his illustrious career, Mahmudullah served as both a cricketer and former T20I captain for his nation. Renowned for his versatility, he played for Dhaka Division and represented Bangladesh across all cricket formats. Starting as a bowler, Mahmudullah transitioned into a formidable middle-order batsman and off-spin bowler. His impressive tally includes nearly 10,000 runs and over 150 wickets. He made history as the first Bangladeshi to score a century in a World Cup match, highlighting his exceptional talent.
Domestic and T20 Career Highlights
- National Cricket League
In the 2008-2009 season, Mahmudullah emerged as the second-highest run-scorer with 710 runs, prompting his return to the ODI squad.
- Bangladesh Premier League – Chittagong Kings
Mahmudullah was acquired by Chittagong Kings for $110,000 in the inaugural 2012 tournament, contributing 180 runs and 4 wickets.
- Barisal Bulls
Leading Barisal Bulls in 2015, Mahmudullah topped the team’s batting charts with 279 runs and also claimed 5 wickets.
- Khulna Titans
Joining Khulna Titans in 2016, Mahmudullah led again with 396 runs and 10 wickets, including a best of 3/6.
- Bangladesh Premier League – 2017
In 2017, Mahmudullah scored 312 runs and secured 6 wickets, showcasing consistent performance.
- Bangladesh Premier League – 2019
During the 2019 season, Mahmudullah amassed 219 runs and took 9 wickets for his team.
- Chattogram Challengers
Transitioning to Chattogram Challengers in 2019, he contributed 201 runs and 3 wickets.
- Minister Group Dhaka
In the 2021-22 season, Mahmudullah scored 255 runs and took 3 wickets while playing for Minister Group Dhaka.
- Fortune Barishal
Currently, Mahmudullah plays for Fortune Barishal in the ongoing 2024 Bangladesh Premier League season.
- Pakistan Super League
Representing Quetta Gladiators in 2017, he scored 37 runs and claimed 7 wickets.
- Multan Sultans
Signed by Multan Sultans in 2021, Mahmudullah prepared for the Pakistan Super League but did not play.
- Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League
In the 2017-18 season, Mahmudullah was the top pick for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club, becoming the league’s highest-paid player.
- Bangabandhu T20 Cup
Captaining Gemcon Khulna, Mahmudullah led his team to victory in the inaugural 2020-21 Bangabandhu T20 Cup.
International Career Highlights
- Early Years and Test Debut
Mahmudullah made his ODI debut in July 2007 against Sri Lanka, showcasing his all-round abilities with 36 runs and 2 wickets. He later participated in the 2007 Twenty20 World Championship.
- Test Debut and Milestones
In his Test debut against the West Indies in July 2009, Mahmudullah showcased his bowling prowess with an impressive eight-wicket haul, including a crucial five-wicket performance in the second innings, securing Bangladesh’s historic victory abroad.
- Establishing as a Permanent Member
Despite scoring a Test century at number 8, Mahmudullah’s promotion was hindered by perceived vulnerabilities against fast bowling. He played a key role in Bangladesh’s 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup squad and became vice-captain in September 2011.
- 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup Heroics
During the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, Mahmudullah made history as the first Bangladeshi batsman to score a century in a World Cup match. His stellar performances against England and New Zealand earned him the title of Bangladesh’s highest run-scorer in the tournament.
- 2017 ICC Champions Trophy
In the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy against New Zealand, Mahmudullah’s century and his partnership with Shakib Al Hasan for a record-breaking 224-run fifth-wicket stand were pivotal moments in Bangladesh’s cricketing journey. Together, they achieved a historic milestone that resonated deeply within Bangladesh’s cricketing history.
Captaincy Achievements
- Test and T20I Captaincy Debut
In January 2018, Mahmudullah assumed captaincy for Bangladesh’s Test team after Shakib Al Hasan’s injury during the Tri-series final against Sri Lanka.
- Nidahas Trophy and Record Performances
Under Mahmudullah’s leadership, Bangladesh achieved milestones like their highest T20I total (193/5) against Sri Lanka. In the Nidahas Trophy, Mahmudullah guided Bangladesh to their first-ever 200-plus run chase against Sri Lanka. His unbeaten 43-run innings in the semi-final ensured Bangladesh’s berth in the tournament final.
2019 Cricket World Cup
In April 2019, Mahmudullah was selected to represent Bangladesh in the 2019 Cricket World Cup. BCB advised Mahmudullah to focus on limited-overs cricket due to his performance struggles in Test matches. Consequently, when BCB revised its contracts in March 2020, Mahmudullah was only offered a whiteball contract.
Mahmudullah Stats
Batting & Fielding Career Summary
| FORMAT | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s | Ct | St |
| Tests | 50 | 94 | 7 | 2914 | 150* | 33.49 | 5456 | 53.40 | 5 | 16 | 338 | 24 | 38 | 1 |
| ODIs | 232 | 202 | 51 | 5386 | 128* | 35.66 | 7002 | 76.92 | 4 | 28 | 406 | 93 | 81 | 0 |
| T20Is | 138 | 127 | 26 | 2394 | 64* | 23.70 | 2032 | 117.81 | 0 | 8 | 183 | 74 | 50 | 0 |
| FC | 114 | 204 | 20 | 6557 | 152 | 35.63 | – | – | 14 | 32 | – | – | 98 | 1 |
| List A | 359 | 323 | 65 | 9532 | 130 | 36.94 | – | – | 8 | 57 | – | – | 135 | 0 |
Bowling Career Summary
| FORMAT | Mat | Inns | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Ave | Econ | SR | 4w | 5w | 10w |
| Tests | 50 | 66 | 3423 | 1958 | 43 | 5/51 | 8/110 | 45.53 | 3.43 | 79.6 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| ODIs | 232 | 151 | 4350 | 3791 | 82 | 3/4 | 3/4 | 46.23 | 5.22 | 53.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| T20Is | 138 | 78 | 932 | 1094 | 40 | 3/10 | 3/10 | 27.35 | 7.04 | 23.3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| FC | 114 | – | 9111 | 5026 | 143 | 7/94 | – | 35.14 | 3.30 | 63.7 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
| List A | 359 | – | 8213 | 6758 | 177 | 5/66 | 5/66 | 38.18 | 4.93 | 46.4 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
Retirement from Test Cricket
In July 2021, Mahmudullah hinted at retirement from Test cricket to teammates during a one-off match against Zimbabwe. This decision was officially confirmed when he was honored by his teammates before the fifth day’s play. Mahmudullah faced criticism for the timing of his retirement announcement from the BCB president. Nonetheless, his outstanding 150-run unbeaten innings in his 50th Test match earned him the Man of the Match accolade. Bangladesh went on to win the match by 220 runs. Mahmudullah formally announced his retirement from Test cricket in November 2021, before the First Test against Pakistan.
Continuing in Limited-Overs Cricket
In May 2024, Mahmudullah was chosen for Bangladesh’s squad in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, focusing on limited-overs cricket.
Brand Endorsements and Engagements
Since the 2015 Cricket World Cup, Mahmudullah has been managed by Imago Sports Management. Mahmudullah endorsed Scan Cement for HeidelbergCement and partnered with Helio for social media, and Raw Nation for bat sponsorship. Additionally, he secured endorsement deals with Cheer Up Beverage.
USAID Goodwill Ambassador Role
Mahmudullah works with USAID as a Goodwill Ambassador, promoting youth empowerment, education, and nutrition in Bangladesh. He also advocates for reducing gender-based violence through social media and public service announcements.
Academic Achievement
In March 2023, Mahmudullah earned his MBA from the American International University-Bangladesh.
Records and Achievements
Captaincy Record
As captain:
- Test: 6 matches, 1 win, 4 losses
- T20I: 43 matches, 16 wins, 25 losses
International Record
Mahmudullah joined New Zealand’s John Richard Reid as the only cricketer to achieve a century, a five-wicket haul, and a stumping in Tests. Mahmudullah set the record for Bangladesh’s most economical bowling in T20Is, giving away just 8 runs across 4 overs against Afghanistan in the 2014 ICC World Twenty20. This achievement underscores his skill and precision in limited-overs cricket. In September 2021, he became the first Bangladeshi to play 100 T20I matches.
Conclusion
Mahmudullah’s cricket journey is a testament to perseverance and achievement. Starting with his debut, Mahmudullah quickly became a pivotal player for Bangladesh, excelling in both batting and bowling. Throughout his career, he secured numerous records, including the first Bangladeshi century in a Cricket World Cup. His leadership as captain and ambassador for youth empowerment with USAID reflects his broader impact beyond cricket. Mahmudullah’s endorsement deals and partnerships with brands like Scan Cement and Helio further highlight his influence and popularity. As he continues to contribute to Bangladesh cricket, Mahmudullah remains a symbol of dedication and success in the sport.
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Discover Mahmudullah’s inspiring journey in cricket, from record-breaking performances to leadership and brand endorsements.
FAQs
1. What inspired Mahmudullah to pursue a cricket career?
Mahmudullah was inspired to pursue cricket from a young age, growing up in a family that supported his passion for the sport. His talent and potential were evident early on, as he represented various Bangladeshi teams at the U19, A, Emerging, and national levels. Mahmudullah’s right-handed batting style and all-round abilities have been key factors in his success.
2. What were some of Mahmudullah’s most memorable innings?
Some of Mahmudullah’s most memorable innings include:
His unbeaten 150 against Zimbabwe in July 2021, which was his career-best score in Tests helped Bangladesh win the match by 220 runs.
His performances in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he was named in Bangladesh’s squad.
His match-winning innings in limited-overs formats showcased his ability to perform under pressure.
3. Why did Mahmudullah decide to retire from Test cricket?
Mahmudullah announced his retirement from Test cricket during the third day of the one-off Test match against Zimbabwe in July 2021. This sudden decision was criticized by the BCB president, who felt it would affect the team negatively. However, Mahmudullah officially confirmed his retirement from Test cricket in November 2021, before the first Test against Pakistan. The decision was likely influenced by his poor performance in Tests and the BCB’s suggestion to focus on limited-overs formats.
