When Shakib-Riyad scripted a comeback for the ages

On June 9, 2017, four years from today, Bangladesh scripted one of their greatest comebacks, if not the greatest, in their cricket history. Bangladesh, from absolutely nowhere, beat a strong New Zealand in a 2017 ICC Champions Trophy encounter in Cardiff. 

Cardiff was a happy hunting ground for Bangladesh, having won against the all-winning Australia team in 2005. Bangladesh started off pretty well.

They restricted New Zealand to 265 for eight in 50 overs. Bangladesh didn't let New Zealand score freely during the slog overs thanks to a surprising Mosaddek Hossain spell (3/13 in three overs).

But the start with the bat was gloomy for Bangladesh, having lost the top three inside five overs. When Mushfiqur Rahim was bowled by an Adam Milne inswinger, Bangladesh were tottering at 33 for four in the 12th over. 

The onus was on Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah to bail Bangladesh out of trouble.

Their counterattacking approach soon left New Zealand bowlers wondering. The duo kept the scoreboard moving and opened up the shoulders when they were well-set. The partnership lasted for almost 35 overs and When Shakib got outscoring a magnificent 114 off 115, Bangladesh needed only nine runs to win.

This was Shakib's seventh ODI hundred and first in an ICC event. Mahmudullah soon reached his hundred, his third in ICC events and second against the Black Caps.

They added 224 for the fifth wicket which was then the highest ever partnership by a Bangladeshi pair in ODIs. It is still the third-highest fifth-wicket stand of all-time in ODIs.

With this win, Bangladesh progressed to the semi-final of the tournament and it remains Bangladesh's greatest achievement in ICC events.