Mushfiqur Rahim has once again cemented his legacy as one of Bangladesh’s finest cricketers by surpassing Mohammad Ashraful to become the highest Test run-scorer for Bangladesh on Sri Lankan soil. This significant milestone was achieved during the first Test of the Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka in 2025, played at the iconic Galle International Stadium. In a match that already saw a strong batting resurgence from the visitors, Rahim’s individual feat stood out as a major highlight.
The right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman entered the match needing only a few runs to overtake Ashraful’s tally of 751 Test runs in Sri Lanka. Mushfiqur not only crossed that mark but did so in far fewer innings, showcasing the consistency and class that have defined his Test career. With his unbeaten 105 on Day 1 of the Galle Test, Rahim took his tally to 755 runs in Sri Lankan conditions, overtaking Ashraful’s previous record and doing so in just 15 innings compared to Ashraful’s 18.
Bangladesh had found themselves in a precarious position early in the innings after losing three quick wickets. Facing the challenge of a turning track and a motivated Sri Lankan bowling unit, the visitors needed a steady hand in the middle. Mushfiqur Rahim rose to the occasion with his trademark composure and precision. Together with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who also struck a fluent century, Rahim led a formidable fightback. Their unbroken partnership of 247 runs not only stabilized the innings but also put Bangladesh in a commanding position at 292 for 3 at stumps on the opening day.
Mushfiqur’s century was his twelfth in Test cricket and fourth against Sri Lanka. His success in Sri Lankan conditions is a testament to his adaptability and experience. The pitches in Sri Lanka, known for their sharp turn and low bounce, have often posed a challenge for visiting batters. Yet Rahim, with his footwork and game awareness, has consistently performed well, and this innings was no different. His ability to absorb pressure and rotate the strike was key to Bangladesh’s recovery.
Mohammad Ashraful, once a golden boy of Bangladeshi cricket, had held the record for most Test runs in Sri Lanka for over a decade. His performances, including a memorable century in Colombo, had long been a benchmark for Bangladeshi batsmen touring the island nation. For Rahim to surpass such a record in a high-pressure situation makes the achievement even more meaningful.