Naeem Islam becomes second cricketer to score 10,000 first-class runs for Bangladesh

In a remarkable feat, Naeem Islam, the seasoned cricketer from Bangladesh, achieved the illustrious milestone of amassing 10,000 runs in first-class cricket during the 25th National Cricket League (NCL). The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recognized this accomplishment by presenting Naeem with a prestigious crest. This honor preceded his appearance for Dhaka Metro in the second-round clash against reigning champions Rangpur Division at Mirpur.

The Bangladesh all-rounder's first-class career reached a commendable 10,039 runs, featuring 31 centuries at an average of 42.35. With eight Test matches for Bangladesh, he has scored 416 runs, including a memorable 108 against the West Indies in 2012. Selector Habibul Bashar and match referee Md Ehsanul Hoque bestowed him with a prestigious crest in recognition of this remarkable milestone. 

“Well scoring 10,000 runs is very difficult and he has been playing for a very long time. In the last three to four years, he has been batting very well. Not only about scoring runs, but our future players, who are now playing longer-version first-class cricket, will be inspired by his batting and can learn how to play longer-version cricket, “said Bashar as quoted by The Daily Star.

Uncommon scenario where a first-class career surpasses the international one

Naeem Islam's recent accomplishment echoes the remarkable feat of Tushar Imran, the record holder for the highest first-class runs in Bangladesh, amassing an impressive 11,972 runs. The 36-year-old achieved this milestone during Dhaka Metro's second innings against Sylhet Division on October 14, crafting an undefeated 44-run innings.

Islam, a proficient top-order batter, featured prominently in Bangladesh's victorious 2003-04 U19 World Cup Plate Championship campaign. His crowning achievement was the highest individual score in the Plate final against reigning champions Australia. A staggering eight of his fellow finalists, including Aftab Ahmed and Shahadat Hossain, progressed to the national team, and in October 2008, Islam received his call-up to Bangladesh's ODI squad.