Teammates pay tribute as Mahmudullah bids farewell to international cricket

Mahmudullah Riyad has retired from international cricket, bringing an end to his 18-year career in Bangladesh colours. Having previously stepped away from Tests and T20Is, the 39-year-old all-rounder announced his ODI retirement on 12 march via social media, marking the official conclusion of an era.

His departure also signifies the end of the 'Panchpandav' generation in Bangladesh's white-ball cricket. While Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, and Mushfiqur Rahim had already retired, Mahmudullah's exit leaves Shakib Al Hasan as the last remaining member—though questions remain over his ODI future.

Teammates past and present paid their respects to Mahmudullah, reflecting on his influence on Bangladesh cricket.

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, under whose captaincy Mahmudullah played 110 ODIs, emphasised that his legacy extends beyond numbers.

"Congratulations, Riyad, on a remarkable international career. The numbers beside your name don't define you—you are far greater than that. We all know how much the team needed you and how deeply you became a part of it," Mashrafe said. "Your centuries in Adelaide and Cardiff remain unforgettable. I hope many follow your path and go beyond what you achieved on the big stage."

Shakib Al Hasan, who has been largely absent from social media, made an exception for Mahmudullah's retirement.

"Riyad bhai, it has been a privilege to play alongside you and learn from you. You have led by example, both on and off the field, and your achievements speak for themselves. Our nation is grateful for your dedication, resilience, and unwavering love for the game and the country," he wrote.

Tamim Iqbal, who retired from international cricket in january, understands the emotions of leaving the Bangladesh jersey behind.

"Congratulations on completing an illustrious international career, Riyad bhai. You have been a pillar of Bangladesh cricket and an inspiration to many of us, both on and off the field. We will always cherish the memories we made in the dressing room. Thank you for everything you have done for Bangladesh cricket."

Mushfiqur Rahim, who recently retired from ODIs, highlighted their years of camaraderie.

"It has been an absolute honour to share the field with you for so many years. Thank you for your guidance and the countless memories we created together. I am immensely proud of everything you have achieved for the country. May you enjoy this well-deserved retirement, Riyad bhai."

Najmul Hossain Shanto, under whose captaincy Mahmudullah played his final match, expressed gratitude.

"Riyad bhai, thank you for all your contributions to Bangladesh cricket on the world stage. We will miss you in the dressing room. Your work ethic and dedication will continue to inspire us for years to come."

Mehidy Hasan Miraz recalled Mahmudullah's support when he scored his maiden ODI century.

"Dear Mahmudullah Riyad bhai, you have always been there for me as a senior and a teammate. From watching you on TV as a child to sharing a dressing room with you, and from building partnerships together to your support during my first ODI century—every moment has been special. Like every cricket fan in the country, I am grateful for your contributions and the memories you have given us."

Taskin Ahmed, who has played alongside Mahmudullah in all three formats, called him an inspiration.

"A true legend of Bangladesh cricket bids farewell today. Riyad bhai, it has been an absolute honour to share the field with you. Your calm presence, match-winning performances, and leadership will always be remembered. You have inspired an entire generation, including myself."

Liton Das, who played under Mahmudullah's leadership, felt fortunate to have shared a dressing room with him.

"You have given so much to Bangladesh cricket, Riyad bhai. We have learned a lot from you. Playing under your leadership and sharing the dressing room with you has been an honour for many of us."

Soumya Sarkar kept his tribute short but heartfelt.

"A journey of dedication, commitment, and countless unforgettable moments. Grateful for every run, wicket, and memory. Thank you, legend."

Rubel Hossain, who made his Test debut alongside Mahmudullah, reflected on their careers beginning together.

"Thank you, Mahmudullah Riyad bhai. You are a champion cricketer. We made our Test debuts together. Wishing you all the best for your future."

Young batter Towhid Hridoy recalled watching Mahmudullah as a child.

"Thank you, Riyad bhai, for all those brilliant moments we witnessed on TV as kids. While everyone called you the 'Silent Killer,' among my friends, you were known as the 'Pain-Killer'—always relieving us in tense situations."

Tanzid Hasan, who grew up idolising Mahmudullah, expressed his gratitude.

"Thank you, Riyad bhai, for all the amazing moments in Bangladesh cricket. Watching you play as a child was one of my biggest inspirations in becoming a cricketer. From your constant advice to your brotherly care and protection, I will always be grateful."

Left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam kept it brief.

"Happy retirement, Mahmudullah Riyad bhai. We will miss you in the national team. Wishing you all the best for your future."

Young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain saw Mahmudullah's departure as the end of an era.

"The end of an era! Riyad bhai has retired from international cricket. Thank you for your passion, dedication, and unforgettable moments in the red and green jersey. You will always remain a true legend."

Mahmudullah made his international debut on 25 july 2007 in an ODI against Sri Lanka and ended his journey in the same format. Over 239 ODIs, he scored 5,689 runs at an average of 36, including four centuries and 32 half-centuries, while also taking 82 wickets.

In Tests, he played 50 matches, amassing 2,914 runs at an average of nearly 33, with five centuries and 16 fifties, alongside 43 wickets.

Mahmudullah also featured in 141 T20Is, scoring 2,444 runs at an average of almost 24, while claiming 41 wickets.