Veteran Bangladesh cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim was adjudged Player of the Match in the first Test against Pakistan at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The keeper-batter played an astonishing innings of 191 runs in the first innings, which helped the visitors take a healthy lead of 117 runs. Pakistan struggled with the bat in the second innings, as they bundled for only 146 runs, and following which, Bangladesh picked up a comfortable 10-wicket win.
After the game, Rahim dedicated his award to the flood victims of Bangladesh. As per reports, almost 18 people died and to help things get better, the 37-year-old announced to donate his prize money. “I want to make an announcement, want to donate my prize money as there’s been flood back in Bangladesh,” Rahim said in the post-match presentation.
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Rahim also considered his knock to be one of his finest in international cricket. He noted that Bangladesh have not done well in Test cricket away from home and for the same reason, the win was extremely vital for everyone. Furthermore, he recalled the hard work put in by all team members and the coaching staff, and added that playing for the country inspires him to do well.
“This is one of my finest (knocks) so far, because we haven’t done that well overseas. All the players prepared well in Pakistan and back home as well. Before the Test series, there was a two and a half months gap. All the players and management were there, the other white-ball players were playing in the World Cup. I’m thankful to the coaching staff and management. When I meet all these guys, it’s a luxury for him (Shanto) and I try to give my best. Doing well for my country inspires me,” Rahim said.
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was happy with Mushfiqur’s performance as well. He lauded and stated that the cricketer has done it for 15–17 years, and he is in no mood to stop.
“Mushfiqur for the last 15–17 years has done really well and he is not tiring, he is playing with the same intensity. He played really well in these hot conditions. I’m not only giving credit to him but all the fifteen members of our squad,” the skipper said.