Mahmudullah Riyad officially retires from Test cricket

CHATTOGRAM - Bangladesh allrounder Mahmudullah Riyad 
finally has announced his retirement officially from Test cricket after a 12-
year career.

     He said he would continue to play ODI cricket and T20 format, where he 
is the captain of the side. The 35-year old played his 50th and last Test 
against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club in July this year with Bangladesh 
recording a 220-run win. In his final innings the right-hander made an 
unbeaten 150, his fifth hundred in Tests, and was adjudged the player of the 
match.

     After hitting his career-best knock in Zimbabwe, he was reportedly to 
make the announcement to his colleagues in the dressing room. He though 
didn't speak on this after the day's play the confirmation came on the final 
day of the Test, when his team-mates gave him a guard of honour ahead of 
play.

     In all Mahmudullah scored 2914 runs at an average of 33.49 and took 43 
wickets in Tests. He has also captained Bangladesh in six Test matches.

     In a statement, Mahmudullah said: "Leaving a format of which I have been 
a part of for such a long time is not easy. I had always thought of going on 
a high and I believe this is the right time to end my Test career. “I want to 
extend my gratitude to the BCB President for supporting me when I returned to 
the Test team. I thank my teammates and the support staff for always 
encouraging me and believing in my ability. It has been an absolute honour 
and privilege to play Test cricket for Bangladesh and I will cherish the many 
memories.

     "Although I am retiring from Tests, I will still be playing ODIs and T20 
internationals and really looking forward to continue giving my best for my country in white ball cricket." BSS