The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has recalled seasoned players Rumana Ahmed and Jahanara Alam for the Women's Asia Cup, set to take place in Sri Lanka from July 19-28.
Rumana, who last played for Bangladesh during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in February 2023, and Jahanara, who featured in the T20I series against Sri Lanka in May 2023, are back in the squad after almost a year.
Sazzad Ahmed, the chief selector of the BCB's women's wing, explained that the upcoming Asia Cup is the last major competition before the World Cup, prompting them to make strategic changes. He highlighted the impressive performances of Rumana and Jahanara in the recent Dhaka Premier Division Women's Cricket League as a key factor in their selection. Ahmed emphasised the need for a balanced team comprising experienced, talented, and young players, and the duo's outstanding league performances contributed to their recall.
Rumana shone in the league, amassing 241 runs and taking 17 wickets for the champion team, Mohammedan Sporting Club. Meanwhile, Jahanara, representing Abahani Limited, emerged as the tournament's top wicket-taker with 25 wickets. Their exceptional performances in domestic cricket underscored their readiness to rejoin the national squad.
New Faces in the Squad
In addition to the veterans, the BCB has included uncapped players Ishma Tanjim, an opening batter, and Sabikun Nahar Jesmin, a left-arm spinner, in the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup.
Missed Out Players
Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Islam Trisna, and Habiba Islam Pinky, who were part of the team in the T20I series against India in April, have not been retained for the Asia Cup squad.
Bangladesh’s Asia Cup Campaign
Drawn in Group B, Bangladesh will compete against Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Thailand. Their campaign begins on July 20 against Sri Lanka in Dambulla, followed by matches against Thailand on July 22 and Malaysia on July 24.
Group A and Tournament Format
Group A includes India, Pakistan, Nepal, and the UAE. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals on July 26, with the final scheduled for July 28.
Bangladesh Squad for the Women's Asia Cup:
Nigar Sultana Joty (captain), Nahida Akter (vice-captain), Murshida Khatun, Dilara Akter, Rumana Ahmed, Ritu Moni, Marufa Akter, Jahanara Alam, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Shorna Akter, Ishma Tanjim, Sabikun Nahar Jesmin, and Shorifa Khatun.
With the blend of experience and new talent, Bangladesh aims to make a strong impact in the upcoming Women's Asia Cup.