United News of Bangladesh

Mahmudullah Riyad’s retirement from international cricket has drawn emotional tributes from his long-time teammates, who reflected on his contribution to Bangladesh cricket. Former captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, who led Mahmudullah for most of his career, shared a heartfelt message on social media, recalling their journey together and the milestones Mahmudullah achieved. “Congratulations on a great international career, Riyad,” Mashrafe wrote. “The numbers beside your name are just statistics, but to us, you are much bigger than that. We know how important you were to the team and how deeply you committed yourself to it.” Mahmudullah Riyad announces retirement from int’l cricket Mashrafe reminisced about Mahmudullah’s iconic centuries in Adelaide and Cardiff, particularly his historic ton in the 2015 World Cup, the first by a Bangladeshi in the tournament. “No one can take away your achievement of being Bangladesh’s first centurion in a World Cup. I hope many from our country will follow your example and surpass your record of four ICC event centuries. You have shown how to step up on the biggest stage, and generations will learn from you.” Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced Tamim Iqbal, another of Mahmudullah’s long-time teammates, described him as one of the pillars of Bangladesh cricket. “You have been an inspiration both on and off the field. I will cherish the memories we shared in the dressing room. Thank you for your contribution to the country’s cricket, and best wishes for the days ahead,” Tamim wrote. Shakib Al Hasan echoed similar sentiments, calling it a privilege to play alongside Mahmudullah. “You led by example, both on and off the field. Your dedication, resilience, and love for the game and the country have made the nation indebted to you,” Shakib wrote. “May Allah bless you and guide you on your new journey.” Mushfiqur Rahim, another close teammate of Mahmudullah, expressed his admiration for the veteran all-rounder. “It has truly been an honor to share the field with you all these years. Thank you for your guidance and the countless memories we’ve made together. I am incredibly proud of all you’ve achieved for the nation,” Mushfiqur said. Mahmudullah’s departure marks the end of an era in Bangladesh cricket. While his absence will be deeply felt, his legacy as one of the country’s most dependable performers will continue to inspire future generations.  

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed its gratitude to Mahmudullah Riyad for his contributions to the national team, following his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. Mahmudullah, one of Bangladesh’s most dependable cricketers, ended an 18-year career, during which he played 430 international matches across formats, scoring 11,047 runs and taking 166 wickets. He also holds the record for hitting the most centuries (4) by a Bangladeshi batter in ICC events and ranks among the country’s top run-scorers in ODIs and T20Is. BCB President Faruque Ahmed acknowledged Mahmudullah’s impact on Bangladesh cricket, describing him as a pillar of strength for the team for nearly two decades. “This is a sombre moment for Bangladesh cricket,” Faruque said in a statement. “Mahmudullah’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure made him an invaluable asset. His dedication and achievements will serve as a benchmark for future generations.” The allrounder also led the national team in six Test matches and 43 T20 internationals. Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced His standout performances include back-to-back centuries in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, which played a key role in Bangladesh’s historic quarterfinal run. The announcement of Mahmudullah’s retirement came days after Mushfiuqr Rahim, another Bangladesh stalwart, announced his retirement from ODIs. Despite retiring from international cricket, Mahmudullah will continue playing in the domestic circuit

Former Australian cricketer Stuart MacGill has been found guilty of involvement in the supply of cocaine in Sydney. MacGill, 54, who played 44 test matches for Australia as a leg-spinner and claimed 208 wickets, was acquitted of knowingly participating in the distribution of a large commercial quantity of an illegal drug. However, a jury found him guilty of being involved in the supply of a prohibited substance. Despite pleading not guilty, MacGill is set to appear in court for sentencing on May 9. The case stemmed from an introduction he made in April 2021 between a cocaine dealer and another individual. On Thursday, the New South Wales District Court jury heard that while MacGill’s role was limited to this introduction, the dealer was also implicated in two other alleged drug transactions. According to the Australian Associated Press, the jury was informed that a deal worth 330,000 Australian dollars ($210,000) was arranged between the dealer, identified in court as ‘Person A,’ and Marino Sotiropoulos, the brother of MacGill’s partner. The jury also learned that the former cricketer was a frequent cocaine user and had been purchasing the drug from the dealer for several years. MacGill previously made headlines in 2021 when he was allegedly kidnapped, assaulted, and threatened at gunpoint before being released. New South Wales police later arrested and charged four men in connection with the incident, during which MacGill was extensively interviewed. MacGill’s international career, spanning from 1988 to 2008, was often overshadowed by legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, who ranks second among the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history. Source: With input from agency

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah Riyad announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. "I have decided to retire from international cricket. All praises only for the Almighty Allah," Riyad posted on his verified Facebook account on Wednesday evening. "I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches & specially my fans who have always supported me," he said. Over the years, Riyad's consistent performances and clutch play had not only won matches for Bangladesh but had also cemented his status as a beloved figure among supporters. His gratitude extends beyond the field, embracing every individual who contributed to his success. Mahmudullah opts out as BCB’s new contract announced In a message filled with emotion, Riyad offered special thanks to those closest to him. He acknowledged his parents, in-laws—with a particular mention of his father-in-law—and most notably his brother, Emdad Ullah, who has been his coach and mentor since childhood. "My brother Emdad Ullah has been there for me constantly, guiding me like a true mentor," Riyad said highlighting the crucial role of family support in his illustrious career. Additionally, he expressed his deep appreciation for his wife and children, describing them as his unwavering support system through thick and thin. Riyad concluded his announcement with a simple, yet profound farewell: "PEACE........... Alhamdulillah. Best wishes to my team & Bangladesh cricket."

The Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) saw good performances from Legends of Rupganj, Abahani Limited, and Mohammedan Sporting Club as they secured convincing wins in their respective matches on Tuesday. Saif Hassan Stars as Legends of Rupganj Thrash Prime Bank Legends of Rupganj registered an eight-wicket victory over Prime Bank Cricket Club, chasing down 152 in just 23.2 overs at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP) Ground in Savar.   Abahani, Mohammedan suffer defeats in Dhaka League Off-spinner Saif Hassan was the standout performer, taking 4 for 37 to dismantle Prime Bank’s batting lineup. Only Mohammad Naim (81 off 83) provided resistance, but lacked support from the other end as Prime Bank folded for 152 in 29.5 overs.  In response, Tanzid Hasan Tamim (68 off 49) and Soumya Sarkar (50* off 40) ensured a comfortable chase, sealing the win with 160 balls to spare. Saif, who also contributed 16 runs, was named Player of the Match. Mahfuzur’s Five-Wicket Haul Powers Abahani to Easy Win A five-wicket haul from Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby (5 for 18) led Abahani Limited to a crushing eight-wicket win over Partex Sporting Club at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Partex struggled from the start, getting bowled out for 100 in 33.1 overs, with Joyraz Sheik (36) and Sabbir Rahman (23) being the only batters to reach double figures. Apart from Mahfuzur, Rakibul Hasan and Mosaddek Hossain picked up two wickets each. Litton Das to play for Gulshan Cricket Club in DPL Chasing a modest target, Parvez Hossain Emon (55 off 50) and Mosaddek Hossain (37* off 27) guided Abahani home in just 14.3 overs. Tamim’s Century Guides Mohammedan to Comfortable Victory An unbeaten 105 off 96 balls from Tamim Iqbal powered Mohammedan Sporting Club to a nine-wicket win over Brothers Union at BKSP. Batting first, Brothers were bowled out for 187 in 48.4 overs, with Imtiaz Hossain (43) and Aich Mollah (32) offering some resistance. Taijul Islam (4 for 31) was the pick of the bowlers, while Abu Hider and Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with crucial wickets. Chasing 188, Tamim led from the front, hitting nine fours and four sixes, while Mahidul Islam Ankon remained unbeaten on 75 off 96 as Mohammedan reached the target in 32.5 overs.

Australia and England will mark the 150th anniversary of Test cricket with a historic day-night match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2027, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed. According to a statement from Cricket Australia, the pink-ball Test will be played from March 11-15, 2027, making it the first time Australia’s men’s team will play a day-night Test at the iconic venue, the ICC website reports. The MCG holds special significance in cricket history, having hosted the first-ever Test match between the two nations in 1877. To celebrate the centenary of that game, Australia and England played a Centenary Test at the same venue in 1977, with Australia winning by 45 runs— the same margin as the original Test match. A second centenary Test was held in 1980 at Lord’s to commemorate the first Test played in England in 1880. India wins ICC Champions Trophy for the third time The upcoming 150th-anniversary Test will be a grand occasion, reflecting both the sport’s rich history and its modern evolution. “The 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be one of the great cricket events, and playing under lights will be a fantastic way to celebrate both our game’s rich heritage and Test cricket’s modern evolution,” said Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia. “It will also help ensure more people are able to attend and watch what will be a fantastic occasion,” he added. Earlier this year, Australia’s women’s team played the first-ever day-night Test at the MCG, also against England, as part of the Women’s Ashes. Greenberg also recalled the Centenary Test’s memorable moments, including David Hookes’ five consecutive boundaries off Tony Greig, Rick McCosker batting with a broken jaw, and Derek Randall’s defiant century. “I’m sure the 150th anniversary Test will create its own lifelong memories,” he said.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), despite showcasing some of the best football in Europe, is once again at risk of an early exit from the Champions League. The French league leaders, who have been eliminated at this stage in five of the past eight seasons, travel to Liverpool on Tuesday for the second leg of their last-16 tie, trailing 1-0 after the first match. The result from the first leg didn’t reflect PSG’s performance at Parc des Princes, where they dominated the match but failed to capitalize on numerous chances against Premier League leaders Liverpool. A late goal by Harvey Elliott sealed the win for Liverpool, with the French side having 28 shots compared to just two for the visitors. PSG coach Luis Enrique remains confident, stating, “We’ll go there and show ourselves to be a team that deserves to go through. We’ve got nothing to lose.” Elsewhere, Barcelona holds a slim 1-0 lead over Benfica, Inter Milan will host Feyenoord after a 2-0 away win, and Bayern Munich will face Bayer Leverkusen following a dominant 3-0 victory. PSG’s loss to Liverpool ended their 10-match winning streak and was their first defeat since November, but the team remains optimistic about a potential comeback. Since Enrique’s arrival, PSG has shifted away from relying on star power like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe. The team has become more cohesive, with striker Ousmane Dembele and winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia playing key roles in their attacking success. PSG has demonstrated fluid attacking play and strong collective defense. Liverpool’s Alisson was instrumental in their victory, making nine saves, while PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma had no saves to make. Liverpool coach Arne Slot praised PSG as the "most complete team" his side has faced, noting their attacking quality, work ethic, and tactical approach under Enrique. In other ties, Barcelona will defend their narrow 1-0 advantage after Raphinha’s goal in Lisbon. Benfica coach Bruno Lage remains hopeful, saying his team created many chances in the first leg. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen faces a daunting task of overturning a 3-0 deficit against Bayern Munich. Coach Xabi Alonso is determined, saying, “The mindset has to be that if there is a chance, we will fight for it. Three goals? You never know. One goal can change everything.” History favors Bayern, who have reached the Champions League quarter-finals a record 22 times.  

Human Rights Watch has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to suspend Afghanistan's membership and bar the Taliban-controlled country from participating in international cricket. This request was made through an email sent to ICC Chair Jay Shah on February 3 and publicly released on March 7. The letter titled "Suspending the Afghanistan Cricket Board and Implementing a Human Rights Policy" called for the suspension of Afghanistan’s participation in cricket until women and girls are once again allowed to engage in education and sports within the country. Human Rights Watch, an independent NGO focused on human rights advocacy, stated that the ICC should adopt a human rights policy based on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. The letter emphasized that despite the ICC's promises to enhance women's cricket, the Taliban's policies since their return to power in 2021 have severely restricted women's and girls' rights, including their freedom of movement, employment, and education beyond sixth grade. The email also highlighted the ICC's commitment to anti-discrimination, asserting that the governing body should ensure that cricket is inclusive and free from intimidation based on sex, gender, or marital status. It pointed out the inconsistency in the ICC's actions, as Afghanistan's men's team still receives financial and logistical support, while the women's team, which has been suspended, is denied the same resources. India wins ICC Champions Trophy for the third time Human Rights Watch further criticized the Taliban's ban on women's participation in cricket, calling it a violation of the Olympic Charter’s guarantee that "the practice of sport is a human right." The letter also referenced former Afghanistan women's players, who now live in exile, requesting ICC recognition of a refugee women's national team to allow them to train, compete, and receive ICC financial support. The email questioned why the ICC has not taken stronger action against the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), asking what steps are being taken to ensure the inclusion of women and girls in Afghan cricket. It also inquired about the support the ICC has provided or plans to offer to the ACB. Human Rights Watch concluded by urging the ICC to adopt a human rights framework, similar to other sports governing bodies, and to pressure the Taliban to allow Afghan women and girls to participate in sport. The ICC has yet to comment on the matter. Source: ESPNcricinfo

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has opted out of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) central contract, which was officially announced on Monday. While BCB had initially included him in the contract for 2025, the veteran cricketer requested to be removed. Mahmudullah, who has already retired from Test and T20I cricket, recently endured a difficult campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy. His longtime teammate Mushfiqur Rahim, who also struggled in the tournament, announced his ODI retirement on March 5. However, Mushfiqur remains in the central contract under Category ‘A’ but will be moved to Category ‘B’ starting this month. Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed is the only player in the highest category, ‘A+’, earning a monthly salary of BDT 10 lakh. BCB thanks Mushfiqur Rahim for remarkable ODI career Young pacer Nahid Rana has been included in the central contract for the first time in Category ‘B’, while Zakir Hasan, Rishad Hossain, and Tanzid Hasan have also earned their maiden contracts under Category ‘C’. Meanwhile, Soumya Sarkar and Shadman Islam have returned to the contract list after missing out last year. Several well-known names, including Shakib Al Hasan, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Zakir Hasan, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and Nayeem Hasan, have been excluded from the contract. Updated Salary Categories for 2025: Category ‘A+’ (BDT 10 lakh/month): Taskin Ahmed. Category ‘A’ (BDT 8 lakh/month): Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim (to move to ‘B’ from March). Category ‘B’ (BDT 6 lakh/month): Mominul Haque, Taijul Islam, Mahmudullah (until March), Mustafizur Rahman, Towhid Hridoy, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana. “A mere social post wasn’t enough”: Tamim honours Mushfiqur after ODI retirement Category ‘C’ (BDT 4 lakh/month): Shadman Islam, Soumya Sarkar, Zakir Ali, Tanzid Hasan, Shariful Islam, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan, Mehedi Hasan. Category ‘D’ (BDT 2 lakh/month): Nasum Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed. 

India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, avenging their 2000 loss and becoming the only team to win the title three times. On Sunday (March 9) final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Rohit Sharma’s team beat the Kiwis by four wickets. New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, scored 251 runs by losing 7 wickets. In response, India chased down the target with one over to spare and four wickets in hand. New Zealand set 252-run target for India in Champions Trophy final India captain Rohit Sharma laid the foundation for his team’s win by scoring a inning-high 76 runs as an opener. His leadership also played a key role in restricting New Zealand's innings, preventing them from posting a higher total. For his all-around contribution, he was awarded the Player of the Match in the final. In addition to Sharma, Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) stabilized the middle order. Towards the end, Lokesh Rahul’s 34 (not out) completed the chase. On the other hand, Mitchell Bracewell, despite taking two wickets for just 26 runs in 10 overs, including a maiden, failed to lead his team to victory.