Ahead of the Women’s World Cup, Bangladesh have included 19-year-old Sumaiya Akter (all-rounder) and 17-year-old Nishita Akter (bowler) to the senior squad. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced the development on Saturday. Both the women cricketers had featured in the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025.
Joining them in the squad is 28-year-old batter Rubya Haider who has played six T20I matches. Sumaiya has made both her T20I and ODI debut while Nishita has only played in two ODI matches.
Wicket-keeper Dilara Akter, bowler Jannatul Ferdus, and all-rounder Ishma Tanjim have been ruled out of the tournament.
The Bangladesh Women team will be headed by wicketkeeper batter Nigar Sultana with bowler Nahida Akter as the vice-captain.
Women’s chief selector Sajjad Ahmed expressed his excitement over the news and the addition of three young cricketers in the senior team.
Speaking on Haider, Ahmed said she will be kept as either a reserve or back-up opener. “Rubya has earned her place through sheer hard work,” he said. “Her development over the last six months has been outstanding. We see her as a valuable option both as a reserve keeper and a back-up opener.”
Addressing on Nishita, the selector praised her maturity and a great addition to the team’s spin attack. “Nishita is still young, but she bowls with great maturity. She is consistent, calm under pressure and her ability to contain left-handers gave her an edge. We believe this experience will serve her well and add depth to our spin attack,” Ahmed added.
Ahmed believes Sumaiya’s all-round experience will add advantage to the team. “Sumaiya has been knocking on the door for some time. She brings the ability to occupy the crease and accelerate when needed. With her skillset and fielding standards, she gives us an all-round option in the top order.”
Bangladesh Women team for World Cup 2025
Nigar Sultana (C), Nahida Akter, Fargana Hoque, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna, Sanjida Akter, Nishita Akter, Sumaiya Akter.
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