Biography of Mohammad Ashraful

Early Life

Mohammad Ashraful was born on July 7, 1984, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Growing up in a cricket-loving nation, his early fascination with the game was evident. He began playing cricket at a young age, showing immense talent and dedication. He honed his skills in local tournaments and streets where he showcased his natural flair for batting. His ascent through the ranks of age-group cricket was swift, and he caught the eye of selectors for the Bangladesh cricket team.

Debut

Ashraful made his debut for the Bangladesh national team in 2001, at the tender age of 17. His first international appearance was in an ODI against Zimbabwe on July 15, 2001. Though the debut match was underwhelming, his undeniable potential was quickly recognized by fans and cricketing experts. He made his Test debut shortly after, on September 10, 2001, against the same opposition.

Key Milestones and Records

One of Ashraful’s significant milestones came during the 2005 ODI series against Australia when he scored an impressive 100 runs, setting a new benchmark for Bangladeshi cricket. His performance was pivotal in securing Bangladesh's first-ever win over a Test-playing nation in a World Cup match against India in 2007. Ashraful scored 87 runs that day, etching his name in the annals of cricket history. In 2014, Ashraful became the first Bangladeshi cricketer to score a century against Australia in an ODI. He was known for his aggressive batting style and ability to play match-winning innings under pressure.

Achievements and Impact

Ashraful's impact on Bangladeshi cricket cannot be overstated. As one of the country's most talented cricketers, he inspired a generation of young players. His charisma at the crease and ability to score runs quickly added excitement to Bangladesh’s cricketing narrative. Despite facing challenges, including inconsistent form and controversies, Ashraful remained a significant figure in the cricketing scene. His exemplary performances have contributed greatly towards establishing Bangladesh cricket on the global stage. Ashraful was part of the squad that qualified for the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup and later for subsequent tournaments, where his contributions were invaluable.

Career Statistics

Test Matches

• Matches: 61
• Innings: 134
• Runs: 2,340
• Batting Average: 33.85
• Centuries: 6
• Half-Centuries: 11
• Highest Score: 190

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 177
• Innings: 147
• Runs: 3,194
• Batting Average: 28.89
• Centuries: 6
• Half-Centuries: 22
• Highest Score: 115

T20 Internationals

• Matches: 46
• Innings: 39
• Runs: 1,129
• Batting Average: 28.86
• Centuries: 0
• Half-Centuries: 5
• Highest Score: 65

Legacy

Mohammad Ashraful's career has been a blend of highs and lows, embodying the spirit of Bangladesh cricket. His journey reflects resilience, talent, and a love for the game. Despite the ups and downs, his influence on the sport in Bangladesh is undeniable, serving as an inspiration for both current and aspiring cricketers. As he continues his cricketing endeavors, Ashraful remains a beloved figure in the hearts of fans, synonymous with the growth and passion of cricket in Bangladesh.

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