Top 5 Greatest Players in Bangladesh Cricket History and Their Achievements

1. Shakib Al Hasan – The All-Round Legend

Let's start with a brief overview of his career and achievements. Shakib is a canny and accurate bowler. He is also a batter with an aggressive style. Al Hasan’s game statistics include:

1. 71 Test matches;

2. 247 ODIs;

3. 129 Twenty20 games for Bangladesh.

Shakib entered the international stage in 2006. That time he was a 19-year-old all-rounder facing Zimbabwe. A year later, the young star was already making headlines, scoring a crucial fifty in Bangladesh’s famous World Cup win over India.

Actually he is a retired player now. Al Hasan was also suspended from bowling in international cricket in December 2024, after the check which revealed that his elbow extended by more than 15 degrees which constituted a violation of rules by England and Wales Cricket Board and ICC. Exceeding this threshold is considered an illegal bowling action. 

Due to his consistency, the player was ranked number 1 among all-rounders by the ICC.

What about Shakib Al Hasan stats and performances in World Cups and international tournaments? He was recognised as one of the most impactful cricketers in ICC Cup 2019. In the summer of 2024, Al Hasan also became the first bowler to take 50 wickets in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

His 7-36 against the NZ team in 2008 proved his worth in Tests, even in defeat. By 2010, he led Bangladesh to their first ODI series win over a top team, sweeping New Zealand 4-0. But leadership came early, and after a tough tour of Zimbabwe in 2011, the captaincy slipped from his hands.

His legacy will be seen in time, as Shakib has gained a reputation as a strong supporter of younger players. He was also a member of the country's parliament in 2024 (his short tenure was due to the president's dissolution of the legislative body). However, it seems that the star is ready to continue his political, public and philanthropic activities.

Key Stats:

• ICC rankings as No. 1 all-rounder for multiple years.

• The longest career in T20 Internationals (17 years and 209 days).

• Over 12,000 international runs and 650+ wickets.

• Player of the Series in multiple ICC tournaments.

2. Tamim Iqbal – The Batting Powerhouse

Tamim Iqbal entered international cricket as a fearless opener. He was unafraid to take on bowlers. His arrival signaled a shift in Bangladesh's top-order approach. In the 2007 World Cup, he played a blistering knock against India. That innings set the tone for a very memorable win. This cemented his place and made him a household name.

During his career Tamim has played many defining knocks. His century against England in the 2011 World Cup  showed his ability to dominate the bowlers. The same goes for unbeaten 334 (individual score) in domestic cricket. His batting gave Bangladesh stability at the top of the order, something they lacked before his time. With his confidence, the team no longer feared to face world-class batting.

Tamim was also prominent in the formation of Bangladesh's approach to opening partnerships. His ability to build innings and accelerate when needed influenced the next generation. He set a template for young openers to follow.

As Bangladesh cricket captain (2020-2023), he is remembered to many. He carried the team through tough times. The leader also ensured the country competed against the best. His captainship focused on discipline and long-term progress. Despite retirement, Iqbal’s influence in the dressing room remains serious. He now works as an international commentator.

As for Tamim Iqbal stats, he is at the forefront of Bangladesh cricket history. He was the first Bangladeshi to pass 15,000 international runs. This achievement speaks volumes about his contribution. He also holds the record for the most centuries in Bangladesh cricket history, cementing his legacy as the country's greatest opener.

Key Stats:

• First Bangladeshi to score 15,000+ international runs.

• Most runs on a single ground (2897).

• Most centuries in international cricket for Bangladesh.

3. Mashrafe Mortaza – The Inspirational Captain

Mashrafe Mortaza started as a raw fast bowler. He burst onto the scene with pace and aggression. Injuries struck 15 times, threatening his career. But he kept coming back. Setbacks did not define him. His resilience shaped his legacy more than his wickets.

As captain, he led Bangladesh into a new era. The team began winning consistently, especially in ODIs.The 2015 World Cup quarter-final run, the historic series wins over Pakistan, India and South Africa - all happened with him leading from the front. His leadership wasn't just about tactics, it was about belief.

Mashrafe's influence went beyond the field. He made cricket a passion for millions. His dedication, despite injury, inspired young players to fight harder. Many fast bowlers today owe their rise to him. This person was more than a captain; he was a mentor, a figure who made everyone around him better.

His numbers bear out his legacy. He remains Bangladesh's most successful ODI captain, leading the team to numerous victories. With over 350 international wickets, he left his mark not only as a leader but also as a bowler who gave his all every time he took the field.

Key Stats:

• Most successful captain in Bangladesh's ODI history.

• 1000 runs and 100 wickets in ODIs.

• Over 350 international wickets in his career.

4. Mushfiqur Rahim – The Backbone of Bangladesh's Batting

Mushfiqur Rahim has been Bangladesh’s crisis man for years. When the top order collapses, he stands firm. When the team needs someone to guide them home, he delivers. His consistency across formats made him Bangladesh’s most reliable batter.

His double century against Sri Lanka in 2013 marked his arrival as a Test giant. His match-winning knock against India in the 2016 T20 World Cup, though ending in heartbreak, proved his ability to take on the best. In ODIs, Tests, or T20s, Mushfiqur was the glue of Bangladesh’s batting.

Beyond batting, he played a key leadership role. He led Bangladesh during crucial years, bringing stability. Even after stepping down, his experience shaped the team.

Mushfiqur revolutionized the wicketkeeper-batsman role in Bangladesh. He set new standards, proving a keeper could be the best batter. His sharp glovework and tactical acumen behind the stumps added another dimension to his value.

His records speak for themselves. He became the first Bangladeshi to score two Test double centuries and crossed 10,000 international runs, making him one of the country's all-time greats. His impact isn’t just in numbers. It’s in the countless innings where he stood tall when the team needed him most.

Key Stats:

• First Bangladeshi player to score two Test double centuries.

• A long career in ODIs (18 years and 220 days).

• Over 10,000 international runs as a wicketkeeper-batsman.

5. Mohammad Rafique – Bangladesh’s First Bowling Hero

In 1998, Bangladesh were still searching for their first ODI win. After years of struggle, the moment finally arrived on May 17. This was a battle against Kenya in Coca-Cola Triangular Series. One tactical move made it all the more special - sending Mohammad Rafique up the order. Known for his left-arm spin, he played a crucial role with the bat. That day, he showcased his all-round skills.

His contribution went far beyond that historic win. He became the face of Bangladesh's bowling attack in the early days. With the fast bowlers struggling to make an impact, Rafique turned the spotlight on spin. He laid the foundations for Bangladesh's spin dominance. Slow bowling could be a weapon - this was proved too.

His best performances came when Bangladesh needed him most. He played a key role in the team's first Test victories. The player used his experience to outwit the batsmen. Rafique also became the first Bangladeshi to take 100 Test wickets. This milestone cemented his place in history.

Beyond his own achievements, he mentored the next generation of spinners. The likes of Shakib Al Hasan and others benefited from his knowledge. His influence can still be seen in Bangladesh's spin-heavy attack today.

Key Stats:

• First Bangladeshi bowler to take 100 Test wickets.

• 1000 runs in Test matches.

• Played a key role in Bangladesh's first-ever Test victories.

Honorable Mentions

• Habibul Bashar. He is a former national captain and one of Bangladesh's earliest cricketing icons. Habibul led the team in their early Test journey. A reliable middle-order batsman, Bashar was instrumental in Bangladesh's transition to Test cricket. His leadership was instrumental in developing the team's confidence during their formative years.

• Mahmudullah (also known as Riyad). Bangladesh’s T20 and World Cup hero, known for his clutch performances. His back-to-back centuries in the 2015 World Cup put Bangladesh on the global map. He has been a key finisher for the team in all formats. His leadership in T20s further solidified his importance. Mahmudullah is a retired player now. 

• Mustafizur Rahman. The new-generation pace sensation, who brought a fresh dimension to Bangladesh’s bowling attack. He has unique cutters and ability to deliver under pressure and stressful situations. Despite young age, Mustafizur provided a significant impact in this sport. His performances in the IPL and international cricket have made him one of Bangladesh’s most exciting bowlers. Mustafizur continues to passionately perform in international and domestic matches. In January 2025, he was included in the country’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

The Bottom Line: 5 Top Cricketers and Their Influence

So how these five players shaped Bangladesh cricket? Contributions of these star persons laid the groundwork for future generations. Young cricketers now take to the field with higher expectations and bigger dreams, thanks to these pioneers. The legacy they have built is fundamental. It ensures that cricket in this country will continue to grow and inspire new talent for years to come.

And last but not least. Every country has its own national sports activity. Its most famous players become legends. Yes, kabaddi is the national sport of Bangladesh. But cricket is still the most popular. As a result, cricketers are well known in the country. Sometimes, because of their sporting success, they begin to shape public policy through their participation in parliament and other government bodies. Al Hasan's experience is a good example of this.