What does it take to play a 100 Tests?
After sifting through the statements of the 83 players who have achieved this feat till now, a few common qualities stand out: hard work, grit, discipline, and a bit of luck.
But the one quality that doesn't get mentioned enough, but is arguably is of equal importance is reverence -- truly understanding the value of the format and the dedication it demands.
It's not because these players did not revere Tests, it's just that in the countries they represent, the five-day format is naturally seen above all others -- it's an accepted and practiced truth.
But in Bangladesh, things are a bit different.
From its nascent stage, cricket in Bangladesh has mainly been a limited-overs affair. The system tried to integrate the longer format in late 90s when the country was already pushing for Test status -- not because it was eager to play Tests, but because it wanted the privileges that come with full status.
This lack of reverence is evident with how players were handed the Test cap almost at random at the naughties, getting tried out for a few matches before disappearing from the team forever.
During this period, a young 18-year-old boy, who looked 15, was given his debut at Lord's in 2005. He went out to bat at the hallowed ground with the top-order already blown to bits against a deadly English pace quartet.
From the looks of it, Bangladesh had just sent another player to the gallows, whose international career was set for an early execution.
But that player with small stature showed tremendous heart, survived 56 deliveries and played a 19-run knock that was enough to make everyone realise that he was here to stay.
Over two decades have passed since then. That wide-eyed teenager is now a veteran international cricketer and just one Test away from becoming the first Bangladeshi to play 100 Test matches.
As a batter, he has only become better with time. In his first 50 Tests, he averaged a tad below 32 and in the 49 that have followed, his average has grown close to 45. Only four players in the world have scored more runs at a higher average than him since 2017.
He has three double-centuries to his names -- two as a wicketkeeper, which is a world record --, has been part of numerous record stands and has led Bangladesh to their maiden Test wins over sides like England, Australia and Sri Lanka.
When trying to dissect what has been at the heart of his storied career, most have credited his discipline, dedication and hunger to get better.
But arguably Mushfiqur's secret has been on display this whole time -- his worn out cap.
Mushfiqur has carried on playing Tests with the same baggy green he was handed on debut.
Severely discoloured now, that cap symbolises his reverence for Test cricket -- a testament to the way he dedicated himself to the red-ball format with the devotion of an artist to his craft.
Mushfiqur has been the first Bangladeshi cricketer who has, in belief and practice, revered Tests as much as it warrants, and has created a blueprint of what it takes to play a 100 Tests from Bangladesh.
And now, the format is set to reward his dedication with a milestone that would forever place him alongside the greats of the game.