Mustafizur Rahman’s Brilliance in T20s — In Shakib’s Shadow, Yet Shining Bright

In the past decade, one name has stood out in Bangladesh cricket’s pace department — Mustafizur Rahman. Since his debut, he has not only been a wicket-taker but also a leader who carried the burden of pace bowling in crunch moments. From Pakistan to India, from the IPL to the international stage, his success has been widespread. With wicket numbers equal to Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur has carved a new chapter for Bangladesh’s fast bowling.

Mustafizur’s arrival in Bangladesh cricket was like a meteor. He made an immediate impact on debut against Pakistan in T20Is. Soon after, he destroyed India’s star-studded batting lineup at home with his cutters. That series earned him a ticket to the IPL, where he shone brightly for Sunrisers Hyderabad, becoming the first overseas cricketer to win the Emerging Player award.

Today, Mustafizur continues to dominate the international stage. With his cutters and variations, he troubles the best batters in the world. In T20 cricket too, he has proven almost unstoppable, establishing himself at home and abroad as a dependable strike bowler who keeps maturing with time.

Former Bangladesh Test centurion Aminul Islam Bulbul has praised his balance, while pace bowling coach Shaun Tait has lauded his leadership.

Tait said, “I am pleased with his bowling. Mustafizur is a valuable asset for us. He is a skilled leader who has been with the team for a long time. As a proven performer, it’s a privilege to work with him. I’m confident he will keep contributing to the team in the future.”

Meanwhile, Bulbul highlighted the visible improvement in his approach, “Mustafiz is one of Bangladesh’s most important fast bowlers. Earlier, he used to rush through his bowling. Now he takes his time, prepares mentally and physically, and bowls accordingly. This change and growth is truly noticeable.”

Recently, Mustafiz has been in outstanding rhythm with the ball — both in terms of economy and crucial breakthroughs. He has mastered the art of bowling at the right time and restricting runs. In Bangladesh’s last 10 T20Is, he has claimed 15 wickets. In the ongoing Asia Cup, he has taken 7 wickets in 4 matches, maintaining an economy rate around 7.

In the Super Four clash against Sri Lanka, Mustafiz was Bangladesh’s standout bowler. He delivered 4 overs, conceding just 19 runs and taking 3 wickets. While other pacers went for 106 runs in their 12 overs combined, Mustafiz’s brilliance broke the backbone of the Sri Lankan batting — notably dismissing Kamindu Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga in the death overs.

This performance brought Mustafiz level with Shakib Al Hasan in international T20I wickets, with 149 scalps in 117 matches. Significantly, Mustafiz reached the tally in fewer matches. He now stands as Bangladesh’s joint-highest wicket-taker in T20Is and is second among active cricketers, behind only Rashid Khan.

Speaking after the match, Saif Hassan said, “Mustafiz is always bowling well. He has been in great rhythm for the last few months. Today again he gave away very few runs and picked up important wickets. He is a world-class bowler, and his performances in all situations are crucial for the team.”

Saif added, “Whenever Mustafiz bowls, the team is usually under pressure. He comes in at that stage and delivers. He’s the kind of match-winner who is extremely valuable in crunch times.”

Sri Lankan cricketer Dasun Shanaka also recognized Mustafiz’s quality, “Mustafiz is a class bowler. He has played in the IPL and has been representing his country for nearly 10 years. There’s nothing to be ashamed of in losing wickets to him. He deserves credit.”

Bangladesh captain Litton Das emphasized his importance as well, “We all know how dangerous Mustafiz is. Today his bowling was vital for us. His 19th over, along with Taskin’s final over, completely changed the momentum of the match.”