Bangladesh have picked their 15 players for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, which will run from September 30 to November 2 in India and Sri Lanka. The big news is the maiden ODI Cup call-up for wicketkeeper-batter Rubya Haider Jhelik.
Rubya has already played in T20 internationals but has not yet made her debut in the 50-over format. She has featured in six T20Is so far in her career, scoring 58 runs at an average of 9.67.
Two more youngsters make the cut. Off-spinner Nishita Akter Nishi, only 17, has been included along with top-order batter Sumaiya Akter. They come in for Dilara Akter Dola, Jannatul Ferdous Sumona and Ishma Tanjim, who were part of earlier squads. Nigar Sultana Joty continues as captain.
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Defeats Against U-15 Boys Raise Concerns
Preparation has been hit by unwanted results. Bangladesh’s senior women lost twice in the Challenge Cup to U-15 boys’ teams. They were beaten by 87 runs by the Red side and went down by 47 runs to the Green side in a rain-affected match.
The board has expressed disappointment.
"Losing to a Under-15 boys team is surely alarming, and to be honest, other cricketing nations are way ahead compared to our women's team," a BCB official said as quoted.
Captain Nigar admitted the lack of international practice was not ideal.
"It would have been better if we had played an international match, but a lot of effort was made. Because of other teams' packed schedules, it was not possible. Still, with whatever facilities we are getting, with the highest facilities possible in Bangladesh, we are practicing. And the important thing is how much we can implement this," Nigar stated.
The squad will assemble in Sylhet for a nine-day training camp. Three day-night practice games at the Sylhet International Stadium are lined up before the team flies out. Bangladesh begin their campaign on October 2 versus Pakistan in Colombo.
Bangladesh Squad for Women's World Cup 2025
Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter (vc), Farzana Haque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter.
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