About Mahmudullah Riyad
Full Name: Mohammad Mahmudullah
Date of Birth: February 4, 1986
Birthplace: Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Role: Right-Handed Batter | Right-Arm Offbreak | Middle-Order All-Rounder
Wearing jersey number 30, Mahmudullah Riyad has long been the unsung hero of Bangladesh cricket. Calm, composed, and quietly efficient, he’s the kind of player who never clamors for attention but consistently delivers when the team needs him the most. Over the years, he has become the embodiment of maturity, experience, and dependability in Bangladesh’s middle order.
Born in Mymensingh, Mahmudullah’s early cricketing journey wasn’t flashy. He wasn’t the most explosive batsman nor the quickest bowler, but what he lacked in flair, he more than made up for with resilience and smart cricketing instincts. His early domestic performances earned him a spot in the national team, and he made his ODI debut in 2007. Initially considered more of a bowling all-rounder, it was his batting that would eventually define his career.
Mahmudullah’s breakthrough came during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he etched his name into the history books by becoming the first Bangladeshi to score a World Cup century. Not once, but twice. He scored a brilliant 103 against England* that helped Bangladesh reach their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal. He followed it up with a majestic 128 against New Zealand, proving his ability to shine on the biggest stage.
Since then, Mahmudullah became a fixture in Bangladesh’s ODI and T20I squads. His temperament in high-pressure games, particularly as a finisher, turned him into a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s white-ball success. Whether it was his late-over sixes or his smart rotation of strike, he had a knack for anchoring an innings while accelerating when required.
In T20 cricket, Mahmudullah has led Bangladesh with cool authority. He captained the side after the retirement of Mashrafe Mortaza and temporary absences of Shakib Al Hasan, always bringing tactical acumen and composure. As a leader, he earned respect for backing younger players and remaining calm during crunch moments.
Mahmudullah is also one of Bangladesh's best fielders—agile in the infield and safe under the high ball. His off-spin, while used less frequently now, has broken partnerships at crucial times, making him a handy sixth bowler when needed.
Off the field, Mahmudullah is respected for his humility, work ethic, and professionalism. He doesn’t chase fame but remains a guiding force in the dressing room. Younger players look up to him as a mentor who leads by example—steady, grounded, and always putting the team first.
As of 2023, Mahmudullah has announced retirement from Tests but continues to serve the team in ODIs and T20Is. His presence remains crucial as Bangladesh transitions toward a new generation of cricketers.
With jersey number 30, Mahmudullah Riyad is a symbol of Bangladesh cricket’s journey—from underdogs to contenders. He might not be the loudest voice on the field, but when it’s time to steady the ship or finish the fight, it’s Mahmudullah who Bangladesh turns to—time and again.